The orientation or direction in which a string or cordage is twisted, including the angle of the threads or strands: The sailor was very knowledgeable about the lay of each rope on the ship.

1. To bet: Jim will lay his ten coins that he is right.
2. To put down or to set in an order: Rebekah will lay the table for six people for dinner.

I will lay my books on the desk.
3. To place a burden or punishment on someone: The Sheriff will lay charges of theft against the three men.

A circular arrangement of flowers and foliage for decorative purposes: When Karl went to Hawaii for his vacation, the host gave him a beautiful lei to wear around his neck.

Descriptive of an individual who may perform some activities in a church but who is not ordained: The lay minister read the lesson for the day.

1. To hit, to beat down or to strike: The gang leader threatened to lay Ralph low if he told the police what happened.
2. To place, to set, or to position in a particular location: Please lay all the maps on the table so Tracie can look at them.
3. To impose a duty or a penalty: The government may lay a heavy tax on the importing of machinery.

A false statement deliberately presented as being true; a falsehood: The principal confronted the children, telling them that she did not want to hear a lie from them.

To assume a horizontal position; such as, for sleep or rest: Cara wants to lie down on the couch for a few minutes because she is too tired to do anything until she is refreshed again.