The only function of the word “was” in verbal and written form of English, is as a Verb.

1. Verb

The word “was” is classified as a verb, more specifically a linking verb, because it joins the subject with the part of the sentence that provides additional information about the suject. Moreover, this form of the verb “to be” also depicts a state of being. In the sample sentence:

Jack was unwell last week.

The word “was” functions as a linking verb that connects the subject “Jack” with “unwell last week.”

Definition:

a. past 1st & 3d singular of be

• Example:
• She was at the mall yesterday.