lie
1lie
verb \ˈlī\lay \ˈlā\ lain \ˈlān\ ly·ing \ˈlī-iŋ\
Definition of LIE
intransitive verb
1
a : to be or to stay at rest in a horizontal position : be prostrate : rest, recline <lie motionless> <lie asleep> b : to assume a horizontal position —often used with down c archaic : to reside temporarily : stay for the night : lodge d : to have sexual intercourse —used with with e : to remain inactive (as in concealment) <lie in wait>
2
: to be in a helpless or defenseless state <the town lay at the mercy of the invaders>
3
of an inanimate thing : to be or remain in a flat or horizontal position upon a broad support <books lying on the table>
4
: to have direction : extend <the route lay to the west>
5
a : to occupy a certain relative place or position <hills lie behind us> b : to have a place in relation to something else <the real reason lies deeper> c : to have an effect through mere presence, weight, or relative position <remorse lay heavily on him> d : to be sustainable or admissible
6
: to remain at anchor or becalmed
7
8
: remain; especially : to remain unused, unsought, or uncared for
See Usage Discussion at lay
— li·er \ˈlī(-ə)r\ noun
— lie low
1
: to lie prostrate, defeated, or disgraced
2
: to stay in hiding : strive to avoid notice
3
: to bide one's time : remain secretly ready for action
Origin of LIE
Middle English, from Old English licgan; akin to Old High German ligen to lie, Latin lectus bed, Greek lechos
First Known Use: before 12th century
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