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to lay up
[phrase form: lay]
01
(of an illness or injury) to confine someone to bed
Example
My friend was laid up with a broken leg for several weeks.
Severe flu symptoms laid her up, forcing her to take time off work and rest at home.
02
(in basketball) to score two points by gently placing the ball off the backboard with one hand
Example
LeBron James can lay up from anywhere on the court.
The young player laid the ball up softly to avoid getting blocked.
03
to accumulate something for future use
Example
I 'm trying to lay up some money for a down payment on a house.
My grandparents always laid up food and supplies in case of a blizzard.
04
to create future problems for oneself
Example
If you do n't start studying for your exams, you 're just laying up problems for yourself.
My friend is laying problems up for themselves by spending more money than they earn.
05
to deactivate a ship or vehicle for storage or repair
Example
The aircraft carrier was laid up for maintenance after it returned from a long deployment.
The oil tanker was laid up for repairs after it collided with another ship.
