Definition

Noun: 1. The act of applying or placing something onto a surface or object, especially by hand: This refers to the physical action of making contact with and transferring something to another thing. It often implies a deliberate, gentle, or specific application. 2. The act of contacting something with your hand: This is a more specific sense, focusing on the touch or placement of a hand or finger.

Usage and Examples

• The ritual involved the laying on of sacred oils.
• According to the reference, peonies can be blighted by the laying on of a finger, illustrating how delicate they are.
• The healing ceremony was characterized by the laying on of hands.
• The laying on of the final coat of paint requires a steady hand.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• Religious/Spiritual Context: Frequently used in phrases like "the laying on of hands" to describe a ritual act for healing, blessing, or ordination.
• Figurative Use: Can sometimes be used to describe the application of something non-physical, such as blame or responsibility, though this is less common for the noun form "laying on." (e.g., ).
• As a Gerund/Noun Phrase: "Laying on" functions as a gerund (a verb form acting as a noun), which is why it is often preceded by "the."

Variants and Related Words

• Lay on (Phrasal Verb): The verb form from which the noun is derived. It means to apply, provide, or supply something.
  • Example: They will lay on a feast for the guests.
• Application (n.): A more general synonym for the act of putting something onto something else.
• Imposition (n.): Can be a synonym in contexts involving applying something burdensome, like a tax or rule.

Synonyms

• Application
• Placement
• Imposition (context-dependent)
• Administration (e.g., of medicine)

Related Phrasal Verbs (from the base verb 'lay')

• Lay on: To provide or supply something, often generously.
  • Example: The company laid on transportation for all the employees.
• Lay it on thick: An idiom meaning to exaggerate praise, flattery, or blame.
  • Example: He was laying it on thick when he said I was the best singer he'd ever heard.

Related Idioms

• Laying it on with a trowel: Similar to "lay it on thick," meaning to exaggerate or overdo praise, flattery, or sentiment.
  • Example: Her compliments were so excessive, she was really laying it on with a trowel.

Noun

1. the act of contacting something with your hand
   • peonies can be blighted by the laying on of a finger