(laɪ) vb (intr) , lies, lying, lay (leɪ) or lain (leɪn) 1. (often foll by down) to place oneself or be in a prostrate position, horizontal to the ground. 2. to be situated, esp on a horizontal surface: the pencil is lying on the desk; India lies to the south of Russia. 3. to be buried: here lies Jane Brown.