Lay

Definition

Lay is a verb and, less commonly, a noun. As a verb, it means to put or place something down in a specific position, often carefully or deliberately. As a noun, it refers to the general appearance or position of something, or a short narrative poem in a traditional style.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /leɪ/
• Respelling: LAY

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /leɪ/
• Respelling: LAY

Etymology

The word "lay" comes from Old English "lecgan," meaning "to place or put down," which is related to Old Norse "leggja" and German "legen." Its roots trace back to Proto-Germanic "*lagjaną" and Proto-Indo-European "*legh-," meaning "to lie or lay down."

Derivatives

• Laid (verb, past tense)
• Layperson (noun)
• Layer (noun)
• Layman (noun)
• Layabout (noun)

Synonyms

• Place
• Set
• Position

Antonyms

• Lift
• Pick up
• Raise

Usage

The verb "lay" is widely used in contexts that involve placing objects, as in "She laid the book on the table." It is often confused with "lie," which means to recline. The noun form appears in less common contexts, such as in poetry or descriptive writing.

Related Terms

• Lie: To recline or be in a horizontal position (distinct from "lay").
• Layer: A single level in a stack or covering.
• Position: A specific arrangement or placement.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To put or place something down: Refers to the act of setting something in a specific position.
  • Example: "Please lay the papers on my desk."
• To produce eggs (used for birds and reptiles): Refers to the act of an animal depositing eggs.
  • Example: "The hen laid three eggs this morning."
• To arrange or prepare something systematically: Refers to setting up or organizing.
  • Example: "They laid the groundwork for the new project."

Noun

• The general appearance or position of something: Refers to the arrangement or structure of an object.
  • Example: "The lay of the land was ideal for farming."
• A short narrative poem in a traditional style: Refers to a form of lyrical or narrative poetry.
  • Example: "The bard recited an ancient lay."