1 A2 informal
To move into a reclined position, resting your back against a surface.
"He laid back in the dentist's chair and tried to stay calm."
inseparable
lay back
B1 informal inseparable intransitive
To recline or lean backwards into a resting position; or to relax and not apply effort.
In plain English
To lean back or lie back to relax.
What does "lay back" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic informal
(Figurative) To take a relaxed, passive approach and not push hard.
"You can't just lay back and expect the opportunities to come to you."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To move your back 'back' and 'lay' (rest) it in a reclined position — largely transparent.
Actually means
To lean back or lie back to relax.
Usage tip
Note: the grammatically strict form for reclining is 'lie back' (intransitive); 'lay back' is widely used informally in the same sense. Also used figuratively to mean taking a relaxed, low-effort approach. 'Lay-back' as an adjective/noun also exists in surfing and music.
Words that pair with "lay back"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
pillow chair seat relax rest enjoy
How to conjugate "lay back"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
lay back
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lays back
he/she/it
Past simple
laid back
yesterday
Past participle
laid back
have + pp
-ing form
laying back
continuous
Hear "lay back" in the wild
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Other ways to say "lay back"
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