LAY WAIT Meaning and
Definition
-
"Lay wait" is a phrase that refers to the act of waiting in ambush or lying in wait in order to attack or apprehend someone. It typically involves hiding or concealing oneself in a strategic location with the intention of surprising or catching the targeted individual or group off guard.
The term "lay wait" can be traced back to the Middle English period, and the word "lay" in this context means to set, place, or position oneself. "Wait," on the other hand, refers to the action of remaining in a specific location or concealing oneself until the opportune moment arises. Together, "lay wait" conveys the idea of intentionally positioning oneself in a hidden or camouflaged manner to spring into action when the target is vulnerable.
This phrase is often associated with criminal or predatory activities, such as lurking in a dark alley or secluded area and waiting for a victim to pass by. However, it can also be used in a military or strategic context, describing the action of soldiers or spies lying in wait to launch a surprise attack or ambush on enemy forces.
Overall, "lay wait" encompasses the notion of preparing an ambush, adopting a concealed position, and patiently waiting for the right moment to carry out an attack or apprehend a target.
Common Misspellings for LAY WAIT
- kay wait
- pay wait
- oay wait
- lzy wait
- lsy wait
- lwy wait
- lqy wait
- lat wait
- lag wait
- lah wait
- lau wait
- la7 wait
- la6 wait
- lay qait
- lay aait
- lay sait
- lay eait
- lay 3ait
- lay 2ait
- lay wzit
Etymology of LAY WAIT
The word "lay wait" is a compound upon the verb "lay" and the noun "wait".
The verb "lay" comes from Old English "lecgan" or "legan", which means "to put or place". It has roots in the Proto-Germanic language and can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European base *legh-, meaning "to lie, lay". Over time, the pronunciation shifted from "legan" to "lay".
The noun "wait" derives from Old North French "waitier" or "guaitier", which means "to watch or guard". It entered Middle English around the 13th century. Its ultimate origins can be traced back to the Old High German "wahta" and the Proto-Germanic base *wahtwō, both meaning "a watch, being awake".
Idioms with the word LAY WAIT
-
lay wait for
The idiom "lay wait for" means to intentionally set a trap or ambush for someone or to lie in wait with the intention of capturing or attacking them. It implies a premeditated or planned act of deceit or trap-setting.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
