Lay Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
lay
[leษช ]
Definitions
intransitive
To put something down gently or carefully on a surface, typically in a horizontal position.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| lay |
This is used when referring to putting something down gently or carefully, often in a horizontal position. It typically involves a direct object and suggests a more deliberate action.
|
| place |
This is more formal and is often used to indicate putting something in a specific, sometimes strategic, location. It implies more thoughtfulness and precision.
|
| set |
This implies positioning something carefully or deliberately. It often refers to arranging items or placing them in a specific setting. It can also mean to establish something in a fixed position.
|
| put |
This is the most common and general term for moving something to a particular position. It is straightforward and less formal, suitable for everyday situations.
|
Examples of usage
- He lay the baby down in the crib.
- She lay the book on the table.
transitive
To put something in a particular position or place, especially in a horizontal position.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| lay |
Used when placing something down gently or carefully, often in a flat position.
|
| position |
Used when putting something in a specific place or location, often with a sense of careful placement or alignment.
|
| arrange |
Used when organizing or placing things in a specific order or pattern.
|
| locate |
Used when finding the position of something or someone, or when establishing a specific place for something.
|
Examples of usage
- She lay the blanket over the sleeping child.
- He lay the cards on the table.
informal
A simple ball game in which a ball is thrown up and caught by the hands or a racket.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| lay |
Used when referring to placing something down gently or in a horizontal position.
|
| toss |
Refers to throwing something lightly or casually.
|
| catch |
Used when receiving or trapping something thrown, dropped, or falling toward you.
|
| game |
Usually refers to a form of play or competitive activity involving skill, knowledge, or chance.
|
Examples of usage
- Let's play a game of lay during the break.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Grammar
- 'Lay' is a transitive verb, meaning it requires a direct object, while 'lie' is intransitive and does not.
- Commonly confused, these verbs are often misused in everyday speech and writing.
- The correct use of these terms can improve clarity in communication.
Literature
- The phrase 'lay it on thick' came from the idea of layering on much emotion or commentary.
- The term has appeared in numerous literary works indicating actions or motions related to placement.
- In poetry, 'lay' often portrays gentleness, as in laying a hand on someone.
Cultural Usage
- In various cultures, 'lay' is used in rituals, such as laying flowers or offerings for homage.
- In music, the term appears often, as in โlay down a trackโ when recording a song.
- Itโs also part of phrases like โlay lowโ, suggesting someone is keeping a low profile.
Psychology
- Laying down can have a calming effect on the mind and body, often used in relaxation techniques.
- Psychologically, the act of laying something down can symbolize letting go of burdens or responsibilities.
- Using physical space to influence mindset, like laying paper on a desk, can improve organization and focus.
Origin of 'lay'
Main points about word origin
- The word has roots in Old English, derived from 'lacan', which means 'to lay down'.
- It is related to the German word 'legen', which also means 'to lay'.
- In different contexts, 'lay' is also the past tense of 'lie', which means to recline.
The word 'lay' has a complex history, with origins in Old English and Germanic languages. In Old English, 'lecgan' meant 'to place,' which eventually evolved into the modern 'lay.' Over time, the word has taken on various meanings and uses in English, reflecting its versatile nature in describing actions of placing or positioning objects. The word has also influenced idiomatic expressions and phrases, adding depth to its usage in the English language.
See also: layabout, layer, layoff, layout, layover, mislay, outlay, outlays, relay.