Definition
to lay (a book) (on a table): to place, to put, to set (a book) (on a table)
Note, don't confuse it with to lie (down) (to assume a reclining position).
The fork was laying on the TV until it fell off.
This is an irregular verb:
I lay / I laid / I have laid
to lay the table (UK): to put the knives, forks, plates, etc. on the table before a meal
The expression to set the table is used in American English.
Pronunciation examples
UK: We need to lay the table - Uncle Bingo is coming to dinner.
US: He laid the book down on the table. That reminds me, I really need to get laid.
- "You still need to clean your room and lay the table for supper!"
- "Just lay your head on my shoulder and try to sleep for a little while."
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