In the manner of a hedge; in a way that is noncommittal, evasive, or full of conditional statements.
From 'hedge' plus the Old English suffix '-wise' meaning 'in the manner of.' Derives from the metaphorical sense of 'hedge' as avoiding direct commitment, like hedges that don't provide clear boundaries.
This word beautifully captures the fact that languages embed moral judgment into word formation—'hedging' your bets came first, then '-wise' made the behavior describable as a lifestyle choice.
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