ENGLISH
REFERENCE

laying

v. · n.
US //ˈɫeɪɪŋ// UK //lˈeɪɪŋ// lay·ing
  1. 1 putting something down (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the action of placing something flat or in a specific position.

    the present participle of 'lay', describing the act of placing an object on a surface or in a horizontal position.

    Example

    The workers are laying the new carpet in the living room today.

    Example

    The technicians spent the afternoon laying the foundation for the new laboratory equipment, ensuring every measurement was precise before the concrete set.
    Pitfall
    He is laying on the bed.
    He is lying on the bed.

    Use 'laying' only when you are putting an object down. If a person is resting, use 'lying'.

  2. 2 producing eggs (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the process of a bird or insect producing eggs.

    the act of producing or depositing eggs, typically used in an agricultural or biological context.

    Example

    The farmer checked the hens to see if their egg laying had increased.

    Example

    The study observed that the laying cycle of the local bird population was significantly affected by the unusually cold spring weather.
  3. 3 construction or arrangement (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the act of building or arranging something, like bricks or pipes.

    the systematic placement or arrangement of materials in construction or infrastructure.

    Example

    The laying of the new water pipes caused some traffic delays.

    Example

    The precise laying of the stone tiles required a high level of craftsmanship to ensure the pattern remained consistent across the entire hall.

Last updated June 19, 2026