To exaggerate praise, flattery, or emotion beyond what is genuine or necessary.
Say nicer (or worse) things than you really mean to impress or influence someone.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To exaggerate praise, flattery, or emotion in a way that seems insincere or excessive.
"He was really laying it on, telling her she was the most talented person he'd ever met."
You really laid it on a bit thick there, didn't you?
— Common British colloquial expression; widely documented in informal speech and British sitcoms
To be very generous in providing something, such as food, drink, or hospitality.
"The hosts really laid it on — there was food and wine for twice as many guests."
To apply (a substance) thickly onto a surface — like spreading butter thickly on bread.
Say nicer (or worse) things than you really mean to impress or influence someone.
Almost always used with 'thick' in its full form ('lay it on thick'). Without 'thick', 'lay it on' is slightly less emphatic but carries the same meaning. Can refer to excessive flattery or, less commonly, to exaggerating difficulties. Informal in all contexts.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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