The spelling of the word "more herkyjerky" may seem confusing at first, but it is actually quite straightforward when using IPA phonetic transcription. The first part "herky" is pronounced "hur-kee" with the "r" sound emphasized. The second part "jerky" is pronounced "jur-kee" with the "r" and "j" sounds emphasized. The word "more" simply means "additional" or "greater," and is pronounced "mor" with a silent "e." When put together, "more herkyjerky" describes a movement that is abrupt and unsteady.
There is no standard dictionary definition for the term "more herkyjerky." However, based on its components, the word can be understood as an adjective used to describe an action, movement, or rhythm that is characterized by being even more abrupt, erratic, or jerky than something already considered to be herky-jerky.
The term "herky-jerky" itself refers to movements or actions that are choppy, irregular, and lacking smoothness or fluidity. It is often used to describe the behavior or motion of a person or object, suggesting a lack of gracefulness or coordination. For example, if someone's dancing style is described as herky-jerky, it implies they have jagged, disjointed movements on the dance floor.
By adding the qualifier "more" before "herkyjerky," the term amplifies the level to which the described action or movement is considered irregular and erratic. This implies that a certain action or rhythm is even less smooth, more fragmented, or jerkier than something already characterized as herky-jerky. For instance, if someone were to say that a new driver's attempts at parallel parking were "more herkyjerky" than their previous unsuccessful attempts, it would imply that the new attempts were even less coordinated and more erratic than before. Overall, "more herkyjerky" suggests an intensification of the unfettered and unsteady nature of the original herky-jerky behavior.
The term "herky-jerky" is an idiomatic expression used to describe jerky or erratic movement. Its origin is not specifically known, but it is believed to be an informal combination of "herky" and "jerky", both of which have similar meanings related to sudden, abrupt, or spasmodic motions.
"Herky" is thought to possibly derive from "hurky", an old English dialect word meaning "to jerk or move suddenly". Meanwhile, "jerky" can be traced back to the late 18th century and is commonly associated with the noun form of "jerk", which refers to a quick, sharp movement.
The term "more herky-jerky" simply adds the word "more" before "herky-jerky" to emphasize someone or something exhibiting an increased level of erratic or spasmodic movement.