Lay: meaning, definitions and examples

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lay

 

[ leɪ ]

Verb / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Verb

intransitive

To put something down gently or carefully on a surface, typically in a horizontal position.

Synonyms

place, put, set.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

  • She laid the blanket on the grass.
  • Please lay the book on the table carefully.
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.

  • She placed the vase on the mantelpiece.
  • The manager placed the documents in the drawer.
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.

  • She set the table for dinner.
  • He set the alarm clock for 7 a.m.
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.

  • Can you put the groceries on the counter?
  • He put his keys in his pocket.

Examples of usage

  • He lay the baby down in the crib.
  • She lay the book on the table.
Context #2 | Verb

transitive

To put something in a particular position or place, especially in a horizontal position.

Synonyms

arrange, locate, position.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lay

Used when placing something down gently or carefully, often in a flat position.

  • She laid the baby in the crib.
  • Please lay the book on the table.
position

Used when putting something in a specific place or location, often with a sense of careful placement or alignment.

  • She positioned the camera to get the best shot.
  • The statue was positioned at the entrance.
arrange

Used when organizing or placing things in a specific order or pattern.

  • He arranged the flowers in the vase.
  • Can you arrange the chairs in a circle?
locate

Used when finding the position of something or someone, or when establishing a specific place for something.

  • They located the missing keys under the sofa.
  • The office is located on the third floor.

Examples of usage

  • She lay the blanket over the sleeping child.
  • He lay the cards on the table.
Context #3 | Noun

informal

A simple ball game in which a ball is thrown up and caught by the hands or a racket.

Synonyms

catch, game, toss.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lay

Used when referring to placing something down gently or in a horizontal position.

  • She lay the book on the table
  • The hen lay an egg
toss

Refers to throwing something lightly or casually.

  • She tossed the keys on the counter
  • He tossed the ball to his friend
catch

Used when receiving or trapping something thrown, dropped, or falling toward you.

  • He tried to catch the ball
  • She managed to catch the last bus
game

Usually refers to a form of play or competitive activity involving skill, knowledge, or chance.

  • They played a game of chess
  • The football game was exciting last night

Examples of usage

  • Let's play a game of lay during the break.

Translations

Translations of the word "lay" in other languages:

🇵🇹 deitar

🇮🇳 रखना

🇩🇪 legen

🇮🇩 meletakkan

🇺🇦 класти

🇵🇱 kłaść

🇯🇵 置く (oku)

🇫🇷 poser

🇪🇸 poner

🇹🇷 koymak

🇰🇷 놓다 (nohta)

🇸🇦 وضع (wada'a)

🇨🇿 položit

🇸🇰 položiť

🇨🇳 放 (fàng)

🇸🇮 položiti

🇮🇸 leggja

🇰🇿 қою

🇬🇪 დადება (dadeba)

🇦🇿 qoymaq

🇲🇽 poner

Etymology

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.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,127, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.