Definition

To untwist or to remove the twists from something.

Example

The sailor had to unlay the rope before he could repair it.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I found this old piece of string in my drawer.

Oh cool! Is it all tangled up?

Yeah, I need to unlay it before I can use it.

That's always a bit of a hassle, isn't it?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To untwist or remove the strands of a rope or similar material.

Example

The sailor had to unlay the rope to repair it properly.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I noticed the rope was all tangled up, can you help me with it?

Sure! We can unlay the strands to make it easier to work with.

That's a good idea; I didn't know that's how you fix it.

Root Explanation

The word 'unlay' is formed from the prefix 'un-' (meaning not or to reverse) and 'lay' (from Old English 'lecgan', meaning to place or put down). The term 'unlay' means to remove or take away what has been laid down.

Memory Tip

Think of 'un-' meaning to reverse or negate something, and 'lay' meaning to place down. So, 'unlay' means to take away what has been placed down.

Visually Confused Words