The phrase "laying thick" is spelled with the letter "l" followed by the diphthong "ei", which represents the sound /eɪ/. The next letter is "i" indicating the short sound /ɪ/, followed by "ng" representing the consonant blend /ŋ/. The word "thick" is spelled with the letters "th" representing the voiceless dental fricative /θ/, followed by the vowel sound /ɪ/ and the consonant /k/. Therefore, "laying thick" is pronounced as /leɪɪŋθɪk/.
"Laying thick" is an idiomatic expression that is used to describe a situation in which someone or something is substantially exaggerating or overemphasizing a particular aspect or idea. The phrase implies that the individual or entity is employing a excessive amount of emphasis or intensity, almost to the point of being excessive or unnecessary.
This expression is often used to describe someone who is adding excessive detail or emphasis to a story, statement, or explanation, amplifying certain elements to a degree that feels exaggerated or repetitive. It can also refer to someone who is excessively insistent or persistent about a certain viewpoint or opinion, repeatedly stressing its importance or validity without considering other perspectives.
The phrase "laying thick" can also be applied to situations or objects, indicating an overabundance or overuse of a particular feature or aspect. For example, if a painting is described as "laying thick" with paint, it means that the artist has applied a significant amount of paint, potentially resulting in a heavy or layered texture.
Overall, "laying thick" is an idiomatic expression that conveys the idea of exaggeration, overemphasis, or an excessive quantity of something, whether it pertains to language, opinions, or physical attributes.
The phrase "laying it on thick" or "laying thick" is believed to have originated in the late 19th century.
The term "laying it on thick" originally derived from the act of applying paint, varnish, or any other substance in a thick or heavy manner. In this sense, it referred to an excessive or exaggerated application of something. Over time, the phrase became figurative, referring to the act of exaggerating or overstating something for effect.
The word "lay" in this context means to apply or spread, while "thick" refers to the density or quantity of something. So, when someone is "laying it on thick", they are essentially applying or presenting something in an exaggerated, excessive, or overly dramatic manner.