Pronunciation: [lˈe͡ɪd smˈuːð] (IPA) 
The phrase "laid smooth" is spelled with the IPA symbols /leɪd/ for "laid" and /smuːð/ for "smooth". The diphthong "ai" in "laid" represents the sound of "long A", while the "th" in "smooth" is pronounced as a voiceless dental fricative, represented by the symbol "ð". Apart from this, the word "smooth" also has the special feature of a doubled "o" followed by the "th" sound, which is not easy to predict from the spelling alone.
"Laid smooth" is a phrase used to describe an object or surface that has been made flat, even, or free from irregularities, creating a smooth and uniform appearance. This term implies that any roughness, bumps, or textures that were initially present have been eliminated or minimized to achieve a level and sleek surface.
The phrase is often employed when referring to various materials or structures that have undergone a process of removing roughness or textural inconsistencies. For instance, it can be used to describe the act of smoothing any surface, such as walls, floors, or furniture, by applying substances like plaster, varnish, or paint. In these cases, the purpose of laying smooth is to achieve an aesthetically pleasing, clean, and polished final product.
Additionally, "laid smooth" can also be associated with the act of ironing clothes or linens. When clothes are laid smooth, it means that they have been properly pressed and their wrinkles and creases have been eliminated, resulting in a neat and wrinkle-free appearance.
Overall, "laid smooth" refers to the process or state of making something flat, even, or texture-free, through either filling, sanding, painting, or ironing, to create a pleasing and refined surface or appearance.
The phrase "laid smooth" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two common English words that have distinct origins.
- "Laid" comes from the Old English word "lǣg" which means "to set down" or "put in a horizontal position". Its etymology can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "leganą".
- "Smooth" originated from the Old English word "smōth" which means "even" or "level". It can be traced to the Proto-Germanic word "smōþuz".
When used together, "laid smooth" refers to something that has been placed or arranged in a horizontal position and is even or level on its surface.
