Pronunciation: [lˈe͡ɪz ɐwˈe͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The word "lays away" is spelled as /leɪz əˈweɪ/. The first part "lays" is pronounced as "leɪz," with a long "a" sound and a "z" at the end. The second part "away" is pronounced as "əˈweɪ," with a schwa sound followed by a long "a" sound and a "y" at the end. Together, "lays away" means to set something aside for future use or storage. Correct spelling is important to ensure effective communication and avoid confusion.
"Lays away" is a phrasal verb that typically refers to the act of setting aside or keeping something, often for future use or safekeeping. It implies the action of saving or storing an item or a sum of money, usually with the intention of preserving it for a specific purpose or until it is needed. This term is commonly used in the context of personal finance or budgeting.
When someone "lays away" money, they are putting it aside and not spending it immediately. It may involve depositing a portion of their income into a savings account or earmarking funds for a specific future expense, such as a vacation, education, or emergencies. By laying away money, individuals aim to accumulate a reserve, ensuring financial security and enabling them to meet future needs or goals.
Similarly, "lays away" can also refer to the practice of setting aside and storing physical items for later use. For instance, someone may "lay away" seasonal clothing or household items that are not currently in use but will be required in the future. This act of laying away possessions helps maintain an organized space and minimizes clutter.
Overall, "lays away" is a verb phrase that encapsulates the act of saving or putting aside both money and belongings, embodying the concept of preparing for the future or safeguarding resources for later use.
The phrase "lays away" is not a distinct word, but rather a combination of two separate words with their own etymologies: "lays" and "away".
1. Lays:
The word "lays" comes from the Old English word "lecgan" or "lecgian", meaning "to cause to lie, put down", which itself is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "lagjanan" with a similar meaning. Over time, "lecgan" evolved into "lays" in Middle English and ultimately became the modern English verb "lay", which means "to put, place, or set something down".
2. Away:
The word "away" has Old English origins as well, stemming from the word "onweg" (or "anweg" in Early Middle English), which means "on from" or "onward".
