The edge or border of something; to be very close to or approaching a particular state or condition.
From Old French verge meaning 'rod' or 'stick', from Latin virga (twig, rod). Originally referred to a staff of office or measuring rod, evolving to mean 'boundary' by the 14th century, then 'edge' and finally the verb meaning 'to approach closely.'
The connection between 'rod' and 'edge' comes from ancient surveying - rods were used to measure and mark property boundaries. Today's phrase 'on the verge' preserves this image of standing right at a measured boundary line, about to cross over.
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