word a day типа

[aleatorius]

из церковноанглийского, из продживсаивустера (thanks you, jeeeеееves):

I have long been desirous of canvassing his lordship's views as to the desirability of purchasing some new socks.

No, sir. I have been canvassing her views, and I find that she is extremely eager to convey refreshment to the officer.

I wish to canvass your views regarding old Chuffy.

оказывается из политического лексикона словцо, т.е. canvass в первую очередь холст, но вот охолстение -

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canvassing
Canvassing is the systematic initiation of direct contact with a target group of individuals commonly used during political campaigns. A campaign team (and during elections a candidate) will knock on doors of private residences within a particular geographic area, engaging in face-to-face personal interaction with voters. Canvassing may also be performed by telephone, where it is referred to as telephone canvassing. The main purpose of canvassing is to perform voter identification – to poll how individuals are planning to vote – rather than to argue with or persuade voters.[1] This preparation is an integral part of a 'get out the vote' operation, in which known supporters are contacted on polling day and reminded to cast their ballot.

Comments

[schloenski.livejournal.com]

Согласен с Википедией :-) У нас сейчас в университете проходят выборы президента студенческого союза, и студенты ходят и агитируют за своих кандидатов. Лозунгами размахивают, просто орут, пристают к другим мимопроходящим студентам. Вот это по-моему и называется canvassing.

У Вудхауза какое-то не такое употребление, наверное, устаревшее.