B1verbhomenature
US/leɪ/
UK/leɪ/
to put something down carefully in a flat position; also to produce eggs
In context
Lay the baby gently on the bed and let her sleep.
Can you help me lay the table for dinner?
Our chickens lay about five eggs a day.
Words that go with lay
verb + noun
- lay eggsTurtles lay their eggs on the beach.
- lay the tableThe children lay the table every evening.
- lay the foundationGood habits lay the foundation for success.
verb + adverb
- lay offThe factory laid off two hundred workers.
- lay downHe laid down his bag and sat down.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I want to lay on the bed for a while.Correct: I want to lie on the bed for a while.