lay meaning and definition

LAY noun

Definition of lay (noun)

1. a narrative song with a recurrent refrain
   • synonyms: ballad
2. a narrative poem of popular origin
   • synonyms: ballad

LAY verb

Definition of lay (verb)

1. put into a certain place or abstract location
   • "Put your things here"; "Set the tray down"; "Set the dogs on the scent of the missing children"; "Place emphasis on a certain point"
   • synonyms: place, pose, position, put, set
2. put in a horizontal position
   • "lay the books on the table"; "lay the patient carefully onto the bed"
   • synonyms: put down, repose
3. prepare or position for action or operation
   • "lay a fire"; "lay the foundation for a new health care plan"
4. lay eggs
   • "This hen doesn't lay"
5. impose as a duty, burden, or punishment
   • "lay a responsibility on someone"

LAY adjective

Definition of lay (adjective)

1. characteristic of those who are not members of the clergy
   • "set his collar in laic rather than clerical position"; "the lay ministry"
   • synonyms: laic, secular
2. not of or from a profession
   • "a lay opinion as to the cause of the disease"