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to lay down
[phrase form: lay]
01
to officially state that something, such as a principle or rule must be obeyed
Example
The judge laid the law down to the defendant, warning him of the consequences of his actions.
The constitution lays down the basic principles of government.
02
to stop trying or fighting, and admit defeat
Example
The soldiers laid their arms down and surrendered.
The politician laid down his office and admitted defeat.
03
to intentionally fall off a motorcycle to avoid a collision
Example
The rider laid down in the corner to avoid hitting the other rider.
The rider laid down to avoid hitting the pothole.
04
to stop holding or using something
Example
The child laid her toy down to eat her dinner.
The musician laid down her instrument to rest her fingers.
05
to resign or retire from a job, responsibility, or position
Example
The CEO laid his duties down after 20 years at the company.
The judge laid down her robe after retiring from the bench.
06
to gradually gather and store something
Example
The sediment in the river laid a layer of silt down on the riverbed.
The company is laying down reserves in case of a recession.
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