Hang/lie heavy Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Conscience Stricken Used to emphasize moral weight or guilt someone feels. After stealing, the guilt lay heavy on his mind, even in sleep. Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Weight Describes problems as if they're a heavy physical burden. With the scandal unveiled, shame hung heavy on him. Pro Tip 3/3Persistent Issues Used for problems that continually cause worry over time. The unresolved mystery of the missing heirloom lay heavy in the family.