Definition & Meaning of "archaic verb"

What is an "archaic verb"?

An archaic verb is a verb that is no longer in common use in contemporary language but may still be found in historical texts or literature. These verbs often belong to earlier forms of a language and can carry meanings or usages that are not familiar to modern speakers. For example, the verb "dost," which means "you do," was commonly used in earlier English but has largely fallen out of use. Archaic verbs can add a sense of historical or poetic flavor to writing, but they may also create confusion for readers who are not familiar with their meanings or forms. Understanding archaic verbs is important for interpreting older literary works and historical documents.