The spelling of "most edgeways" can be a bit tricky because of the pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /məʊst ˈɛdʒwəɪz/. The word "most" is pronounced with a long "o" sound, while "edgeways" is pronounced with a short "e" sound followed by a "zh" sound. The "-ways" ending is also pronounced with a short "e" sound. "Most edgeways" means to argue or discuss something in a way that maximizes its potential, often used in phrases like "get a word in edgeways".
"Most edgeways" is an idiomatic expression typically used in the negative form "can't get a word(edgewise) in/most edgeways" and refers to a situation wherein a person struggles to interject or make a remark in a conversation due to others speaking incessantly or dominating the discussion.
The phrase is derived from the figurative sense of "edgeways," which pertains to getting a word or remark in sideways among other conversations. It implies that there is little or no opportunity for one to contribute or express their opinions amidst a talk dominated by others. Typically, when someone can't get a word(edgewise) in/most edgeways, it signifies that the conversation is dominated by a strong and talkative individual, possibly leaving the others without a chance to express their thoughts.
The phrase is used to describe situations where someone is effectively silenced or ignored despite their attempts to participate in a conversation. It indicates a lack of opportunity or time to present one's own perspective or ideas due to others monopolizing the dialogue. The idiom often connotes a sense of frustration, as the person struggling to get a word in edgewise feels excluded or suppressed in expressing their thoughts or viewpoints due to the overwhelming dominance of others.
The term "most edgeways" does not have a specific etymology as it is a phrase consisting of two words with individual origins.
1) Most: The word "most" originated from the Old English word "māst", which means greatest or largest in quantity or degree. It has remained relatively unchanged throughout its history.
2) Edgeways: The word "edgeways" is derived from the word "edge", which comes from the Old English word "ecg". In this context, "edgeways" means in a sideways or diagonal direction, emphasizing the edge of something. The addition of the suffix "-ways" turns the noun "edge" into an adverb.
So, when combined, "most edgeways" is a phrase that suggests the greatest or largest degree of doing something in a sideways or diagonal direction.