Synonyms for

Lay

Verb / leɪ / Another word for lay — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to put something down or place something in a particular position

Synonyms & similar words

liedown repose liein consist ballad secular put set place laic stand arise dwell rest position lie pose putdown place set position arrange deposit rest drop locate stick prop pose situate install plant establish embed fix

Synonyms by register

Formal

place position set deposit

Informal

put stick tuck pop

Literary

recline repose couch

Antonyms

take raise lift carry hold support

Common collocations

  • lay the table
  • lay eggs
  • lay down the law
  • lay emphasis on
  • lay a trap
  • lay blame on
  • lay foundation

Word family

noun lay
verb lay
adjective laid

Usage note

The verb 'lay' is transitive, meaning it requires a direct object (e.g., 'She laid the book on the table'). It is often confused with the intransitive verb 'lie' (to recline), which does not take an object (e.g., 'He lies down for a nap').

Example sentences

  1. I will lay the blanket on the bed.
  2. Can you lay the dishes on the table?
  3. I want to lay the bricks in a straight line.
  4. He will lay the foundation for the new building.
  5. She will lay the baby gently in the crib.

Quotes

  • You have to do your own growing no matter how tall your grandfather was. - Abraham Lincoln
  • Don't watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going. - Sam Levenson
  • The best way to predict your future is to create it. - Abraham Lincoln

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