lay hands on
To find, obtain, or procure.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“I cannot lay hands on my keys anywhere.”
“The book is out of print, so it is difficult to lay hands on a copy.”
“After searching through the dusty archives for hours, the researcher finally managed to lay hands on the original documents needed to complete his study.”
- 01
a wild goose never laid a tame egg
Most things are inherited and predetermined.
- 02
best laid plans
A proverbial expression used to signify the futility of making detailed plans when the ability to fully or even partially execute them is uncertain.
- 03
catch hands
To take a punch; to get hit, especially with the hand or fist.
- 04
change hands
To become the property of someone else; to be bought or sold.
- 05
clap one's hands red
To clap or applaud intensely.
- 06
clean hands
Freedom from guilt, especially from the guilt of dishonesty in money matters, or of bribe-taking.
- 07
dishpan hands
Hands which are rough, reddish, and dry, as from irritation and chafing caused by immersion in hot water mixed with detergent.
- 08
extra pair of hands
The assistance of another person.
Last updated August 10, 2026