wis

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Pronunciation

• IPA: /waɪs/

Adverb

wis

1. (rare, obsolete or dialectal) Certainly, surely
   • 1884, Charlotte Mary Yonge, The armourer's prentices:

     So I wis would the Dragon under him [...]

2. (rare, obsolete or dialectal) Really, truly
3. (rare, obsolete or dialectal) Indeed

   As wis God helpe me.

Adjective

wis

1. (rare, obsolete or dialectal) Certain
2. (rare, obsolete or dialectal) Sure

   He was wis on his word.

   I am wis that it will happen.

Verb

wis (wis, past participle wist)

1. (obsolete or archaic) To know.
   • 1596-97, William Shakespeare, The Merchant of Venice, Act II, Scene ix:

     "The fire seven times tried this:

     Seven times tried that judgement is,

     That did never choose amiss.

     Some there be that shadows kiss:

     Such have but a shadow's bliss.

     There be fools alive, I wis,

     Silver'd o'er; and so was this.

     I will ever be your head:

     So be gone: you are sped."

2. (obsolete or archaic) To think, suppose.

   Howe'er you wis.

3. (obsolete or archaic) To imagine, ween; to deem.

   Nor do I know how long it is (For I have lain entranced, I wis).

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