lay Definition
- 1to put something down in a flat position
- 2to produce eggs as a female bird or reptile
- 3to prepare a dead body for burial
Using lay: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "lay" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He lay the book on the table.
Example
The hen will lay an egg every day.
Example
The funeral director will lay the deceased to rest.
lay Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with lay
the general situation or state of affairs in a particular area or with regard to a particular topic
Example
Before starting the project, it's important to get the lay of the land and understand the challenges we may face.
Example
After the scandal broke out, the politician decided to lay low for a while.
Example
I've been trying to lay my hands on a copy of that book for months.
Origins of lay
from Old English 'lecgan', meaning 'to place or put down'
Summary: lay in Brief
The verb 'lay' [leɪ] means to put something down in a flat position, to produce eggs as a female bird or reptile, or to prepare a dead body for burial. It can be used in phrases like 'lay of the land,' referring to the general situation, or 'lay low,' meaning to keep a low profile. 'Lay hands on' means to find or obtain something.