IPA: /laɪ/
KK: /laɪ/
To rest or recline in a flat position, often on a surface like a bed or the ground.
After a long day, I like to lie down and relax for a while.
Past: lay
Past Participle: lain
A false statement that someone tells to make others believe something that is not true.
He told a lie to avoid getting in trouble.
To make someone believe something that is not true by telling them false information.
He lied to his friends about where he was last night.
Past: lied
Past Participle: lied
The word 'lie' originates from Old English 'licgan', meaning to be in a horizontal position or to rest. It refers to the act of reclining or being situated in a particular position.
Think of someone 'resting' or 'reclining' — that's why 'lie' means to be in a horizontal position.