How Do You Spell LAY BY?

Pronunciation: [lˈe͡ɪ bˈa͡ɪ] (IPA)

The phrase "lay by" is spelled as /leɪbaɪ/, with the stress on the first syllable. The word "lay" is a verb that means to put something down in a horizontal position, while "by" is a preposition that means close to or next to. Together, "lay by" means to set something aside for later use or to save for a future occasion. It is important to note the correct spelling and pronunciation of this phrase to avoid confusion with other similar phrases, such as "lie by".

LAY BY Meaning and Definition

1. "Lay by" is a phrasal verb that can be used in a variety of contexts with different meanings.

   In a general sense, "lay by" refers to setting aside or saving something, particularly money or resources, for future use. It implies the act of putting something aside in a secure or designated place with the intention of using it later. For example, someone might lay by a portion of their income each month for a vacation or an emergency fund.

   In the agricultural or gardening field, "lay by" pertains to a specific farming practice. It refers to the act of cultivating the soil around the grown crops after they have reached a certain stage or height. This process involves the removal of weeds and the creation of soil ridges or hilling around the base of the plants, which helps with drainage and stabilizes the crops.

   Another use of "lay by" is found in nautical or maritime terminology. Here, it refers to the act of slowing down or reducing speed, typically for ships or boats. This is often done to allow other vessels to pass or when approaching a certain point, such as a dock or harbor.

   Overall, "lay by" can refer to the act of reserving or saving something for later, the agricultural practice of cultivating crops, or the maritime act of slowing down or reducing speed. The specific meaning can be determined based on the context in which it is used.

Common Misspellings for LAY BY

• lay-by
• ley-by
• lai-by
• laybi
• lye by
• lae by
• laie by

Etymology of LAY BY

The word "lay by" has its roots in Old English. The word "lay" originally meant "to put, place, or set down", and "by" meant "near" or "next to". Together, "lay by" came to mean "to set something aside or store it in a convenient place for future use". Over time, it also developed the meanings of "to rest", "to take a break", or "to take refuge". As it entered Middle English, the spelling evolved to "laye by", and eventually became "lay by" in modern English. The phrase is primarily used in British English and is often associated with parking or temporarily stopping a vehicle.

Idioms with the word LAY BY

• lay by the heels The idiom "lay by the heels" refers to the act of imprisoning or restraining someone, typically by binding their ankles together. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of subduing or immobilizing someone or something.
• lay by To save or store something for later use; to set something aside.

Similar spelling words for LAY BY

• lab,
• layby,
• laub,
• lay up,
• layup,
• lavey,
• lay-by,
• Laboy.