Another word for lay

Lay is a present tense transitive verb (it needs a direct object). The definition of lay is: to place something in a horizontal position or a position of rest; set down.

Lay the book on the table.

Laid is the past tense and past participle of lay.

What can be confusing is that lay is also the past tense of the present tense verb lie (to rest or recline). The past participle is lain. Lie is an intransitive verb (it doesn't need a direct object).

Just remember -- chickens lay eggs, but you tell your dog to lie down.