Read the dictionary definition of lay. All definitions for this word.
1. a narrative poem of popular origin
2. a narrative song with a recurrent refrain
3. put into a certain place or abstract location
1. Put your things here
2. Set the tray down
3. Set the dogs on the scent of the missing children
4. Place emphasis on a certain point
4. put in a horizontal position
1. lay the books on the table
2. lay the patient carefully onto the bed
5. lay eggs
1. This hen doesn't lay
6. prepare or position for action or operation
1. lay a fire
2. lay the foundation for a new health care plan
7. impose as a duty, burden, or punishment
1. lay a responsibility on someone
8. not of or from a profession
1. a lay opinion as to the cause of the disease
9. characteristic of those who are not members of the clergy
1. set his collar in laic rather than clerical position
2. the lay ministry