lay about

The phrase "lay about" can imply either engaging in violent action or idleness, depending on its usage.

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Definition

C1British English

(informal)To attack someone violently, often with a weapon.

Example

The gang laid about him with sticks.

B2General

(informal)To strike or hit repeatedly in various directions.

Example

He laid about with his fists in the brawl.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "lay about":

lay over lay on lay in lay by lay figure lay down lay to lay open lay away lie over lay into lie around lie down lie in lay back lie upon lie with lie by lay out lie back lie behind lay to rest lay up lay waste laid up lay in lavender lie in the way lay aside lay odds lie before lay bare lay on the line lay a foundation lay low lay off get laid bed down rest on doss down lay an egg lie on the oars sleep on lair up lay pipe live down lard down lay it on thick lay of the land layer up