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What is another word for Lay? – 289 Lay Synonyms

    Need another word for Lay? Use these synonyms of Lay from our thesaurus to say it differently.


    Synonyms & Similar Words

    Meaning of Lay

    The primary meaning of the word "lay" is to put or place something down, either in a physical sense, such as laying a book on a table, or in a more abstract sense, like laying down rules or laws.

    Definitions

    • To put or place something down, typically in a careful or deliberate manner
    • To cause something to be in a particular position or situation
    • To impose or enforce a rule, law, or penalty
    • To provide or supply something, such as food or a meal
    • To put or place oneself down, typically to rest or sleep

    Etymology of Lay

    The word "lay" has its roots in Old English "lecgan", which is also the source of the Modern English word "lie"
    The word has been used in the English language since the 9th century, with various meanings and connotations evolving over time
    In Middle English, "lay" was used to translate Latin "ponere", which meant "to put" or "to place"
    The word has also been influenced by Old Norse "leggia", which meant "to lay" or "to put"

    Example Uses

    • She laid the book on the table and walked away
    • The company will lay off hundreds of employees due to financial difficulties
    • The teacher laid down the rules for the classroom
    • The city laid on a banquet to celebrate the visiting dignitaries
    • He laid himself down on the grass to take a nap

    Antonyms & Near Antonyms