What is wont?

Wont: A Multifaceted Word

"Wont" is a word with multiple meanings and grammatical functions, primarily as a noun and an auxiliary verb. Understanding its usage is crucial for comprehending older texts and idiomatic expressions.

  • As a Noun: "Wont" as a noun refers to a habitual custom or practice. It signifies something that one is accustomed to doing. Example: "He was in his wont of waking up early." This usage is somewhat archaic.

  • As an Auxiliary Verb (Won't): More commonly, "wont" is encountered as a contraction of "will not" – spelled as "won't". This auxiliary verb expresses future negation. Examples: "I won't go to the party." or "She won't be late."

  • Archaic Usage: In older English, "wont" (as a verb, though less common) could also mean "to be accustomed to" or "to be used to". It expresses a state of being familiar with something. Example: "He was wont to rise with the sun." This usage is now very rare.