English Explanatory Dictionary

lay a foundation

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see lay, foundation.
  2. To elicit information from a witness to show that the witness has knowledge of a matter before the witness testifies to the matter itself.
  3. To make a start.

Word forms

lay a foundation lays a foundation laying a foundation laid a foundation

Etymology

Figurative senses from the idea of laying a foundation as the first step in constructing a building.

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