English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word "lay down" in English

What does "lay down" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

lay down

US /leɪ daʊn/
UK /leɪ daʊn/
"lay down" picture

Phrasal Verb

1.

to put something down on a surface, especially gently or carefully

Example:
•
Please lay down your tools before you leave.
•
She carefully laid down the baby in the crib.
Synonym:
put down place set down deposit
2.

to establish a rule, principle, or plan

Example:
•
The committee will lay down new guidelines for safety.
•
He had to lay down the law to his unruly children.
Synonym:
establish stipulate prescribe formulate
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Related Word:
lay down the law lay lay on lay by lay into lay down your life lay out