lay crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "lay", you've come to the right place. This page provides a comprehensive list of answers, along with explanations to help you understand the nuances of this common puzzle term.
Solutions for "lay crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PUT: To place or set something in a specified position.
SET: To place or fix something in a particular position, often firmly.
5 Letters
PLACE: To put something in a particular position or location.
7 Letters
DEPOSIT: To put or set down (something), often formally or in a specific place.
More About "lay crossword clue"
The word "lay" is a versatile verb in the English language, and thus, a frequent appearance in crossword puzzles. Its primary meaning revolves around the act of placing something down, but its usage can extend to various contexts, making it a challenging yet rewarding clue to solve. Common phrases like "lay down," "lay out," and "lay bare" often provide additional context within the clue itself, guiding solvers toward specific synonyms.
One of the most common confusions arises with the verb "lie." While "lie" means to recline or be in a horizontal position (intransitive, no direct object), "lay" means to place something down (transitive, requires a direct object). Puzzlemakers frequently play on this grammatical distinction, so understanding it can be a significant advantage when tackling clues related to "lay" or "lie."
Beyond its most common verb forms, "lay" can also refer to a non-professional member of a profession (a 'lay person') or, less frequently, a short narrative poem or song. These less common meanings are usually indicated by specific wordplay or more detailed clues, requiring solvers to think outside the most immediate synonyms.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Transitivity: If the clue implies an action done to an object (e.g., "lay bricks"), think of transitive verbs like PUT, SET, or PLACE. This helps differentiate it from "lie" (to recline).
- Look for Phrasal Verbs: "Lay" is often part of phrasal verbs such as "lay out," "lay down," "lay up," etc. The rest of the clue might hint at these specific compound meanings.
- Check for Context: Sometimes, the surrounding words in the clue (e.g., "lay eggs," "lay blame") can narrow down the meaning to a very specific synonym.
- Think of Other Meanings: While less common, remember that "lay" can also refer to a non-professional person (as in 'layman') or a type of song. These are often used for trickier clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "lay" typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, "lay" most commonly refers to the act of placing something down, setting it, or arranging it. It often hints at synonyms for 'put' or 'place'.
Are there different meanings of "lay" in puzzles?
Yes, while 'to place' is primary, 'lay' can also refer to a non-professional (as in 'lay person'), or less commonly, a short narrative poem or song (e.g., 'Lay of the Last Minstrel'). Context is key!
How can I distinguish "lay" from "lie" in a crossword?
'Lay' is a transitive verb, meaning it usually takes a direct object (you 'lay something' down). 'Lie' is intransitive, meaning it doesn't take a direct object (you 'lie down'). Puzzlemakers often exploit this common grammatical confusion, so pay attention to whether the clue implies an object or not.