Lay is often used where lie is considered standard, as in "I'm going to lay down for a quick nap." The use, which dates to the 14th century, troubled no one until the 18th, but since then, people who care …

lay verb (PUT DOWN) Add to word list C1 [ T usually + adv/prep ] to put something in especially a flat or horizontal position, usually carefully or for a particular purpose:

LAY definition: to put or place in a horizontal position or position of rest; set down. See examples of lay used in a sentence.

1. To give up; abandon: lay aside all hope of rescue. 2. To save for the future: laid aside money for a vacation.

Lay is used with some nouns in expressions about accusing or blaming someone. For example, if you lay the blame for a mistake on someone, you say it is their fault, or if the police lay charges against …

Definition of lay verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

The use of lay to mean “lie” occurs commonly in informal speech but it is regarded as an error by many people.

To lay is to set something down or put it in a horizontal position. It can also mean to position or prepare something for action — or simply to lay eggs.

Oct 21, 2024 · Lay is an action word that regularly signifies “to put or set down.” Lie is an action word that normally signifies “to be in or to accept a flat position”. At the end of the day, lay takes an …

Nov 26, 2025 · Remember, “lay” is a transitive verb that requires an object, while “lie” is an intransitive verb that does not require an object. For example, saying “I’m going to go lay down” is incorrect.