The word "most" is used as a determination or adverb to express the largest amount or degree of something among a group. It indicates the highest level of a particular quality or quantity. For example, when we say "most students," we mean a larger number of students than any others in a comparison.
The word "most" originates from the Old English "mæst" or "mosta," which comes from the Proto-Germanic "*maizaz" meaning "greater" or "more." Its use has evolved over time through various forms in Middle English before reaching the modern form we use today.