laying
word · lemma: lay
Definition
Present participle of 'lay'. It means putting something down carefully in a place, arranging something flat, or producing eggs, depending on the context.
Usage & Nuances
Often confused with 'lying'. 'Laying' usually needs an object: 'laying the book on the table'. Common patterns include 'laying the table', 'laying bricks', and 'laying eggs'. In informal speech, some speakers mix up 'lay' and 'lie', but standard English keeps them separate.
Example Sentences
She is laying the baby on the bed.
basic
The hen is laying an egg.
basic
He kept laying his phone on my desk and walking away.
natural
The company is laying cables across the neighborhood this week.
natural
They are laying the carpet in the living room.
basic
We’ve been laying the groundwork for this project for months.
natural