Browse all

lay on

B2 neutral separable transitive
In simple words

Get something ready and available for other people to use or enjoy.

Literal meaning: To place (something) on top of or in front of people.

Meanings

1 B2 neutral

To provide or arrange something for people, especially food, drink, or transport.

"The company laid on refreshments and a coach for all the staff attending the conference."

Grammar: separable
2 C1 idiomatic informal

To attack someone physically; to hit them.

"He laid one on the bully before anyone could stop him."

Grammar: separable
3 B2 neutral

To apply a substance to a surface.

"The plasterer laid on a second coat to smooth out the bumps."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Chiefly British English in the 'provide/arrange' sense. Often used in contexts of hospitality (food and drink) or event organisation (transport, entertainment). Also used in informal American English meaning to hit someone or apply pressure.

Commonly used with

food transport drinks buses entertainment spread

Forms

Base
lay on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lays on
he/she/it
Past simple
laid on
yesterday
Past participle
laid on
have + pp
-ing form
laying on
continuous

Understand "lay on" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "lay on" on Looplines