Lay Definition & Meaning
lay
- adjective
- characteristic of those who are not members of the clergy; "set his collar in laic rather than clerical position"; "the lay ministry"
- not of or from a profession; "a lay opinion as to the cause of the disease"
- noun
- a narrative song with a recurrent refrain
- a narrative poem of popular origin
- verb
- 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"
- put in a horizontal position; "lay the books on the table"; "lay the patient carefully onto the bed"
- prepare or position for action or operation; "lay a fire"; "lay the foundation for a new health care plan"
- lay eggs; "This hen doesn't lay"
- impose as a duty, burden, or punishment; "lay a responsibility on someone"
"Lay" in song lyrics
See how lay is used in real songs:
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"In fact, I'm there to cracks where the feet lay"
Esoteric f/ Main Flow — Street Pay -
"Got to lay law, when I say it's time to lay"
Above the Law — L.A. Vibe -
"Act like I dont know where you lay"
Ace Hood — Get 'Em
Words that rhyme with lay
Usage tips for "lay"
Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "lay" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for lay to find words that pair well.