"Lay athwart of" is an idiomatic expression that describes the act of obstructing or opposing something or someone directly, typically in a physical or metaphorical sense. It implies the act of standing in the way or blocking the path of progress or advancement.
In a literal sense, "lay athwart of" might refer to physically positioning oneself or an object in such a way that it hinders the movement or progress of another object or individual. For example, a person might lay athwart of a road or a doorway, preventing others from passing through.
In a metaphorical sense, the phrase can be used to describe opposing or obstructing a particular action, plan, or idea. It suggests resistance or an attempt to impede the forward motion or success of something. For instance, one might lay athwart of a proposed legislation, trying to obstruct its passage or implementation.
The expression can also connote a spirit of defiance, as it implies a deliberate act to challenge or oppose prevailing norms or conventions. It is often associated with a courageous, assertive, or rebellious posture against the status quo.
Overall, "lay athwart of" is an idiomatic phrase that signifies the obstructing, opposing, or defying of something or someone directly, either physically or metaphorically.
