lay
n. uncountable B1 Intermediate Oxford US //ˈɫeɪ// UK //lˈeɪ// lay
n. The way a piece of land is arranged, with its hills, valleys, and other features. People also use the phrase 'the lay of the land' to mean the general situation in a new place or organization.
n. The physical arrangement of features in an area of land. Figuratively, it refers to the current state of affairs or the structure of a situation, especially one that is new to an observer.
First, let's get the lay of the land.
A new manager needs time to understand the lay of the land in the office.
Her first week was spent observing, trying to get the lay of the political land before committing to any alliances.
Usage
Almost always appears in the fixed phrase 'the lay of the land', used both literally for geography and figuratively for a situation.