Lay about Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Violent Connotation Indicates uncontrolled violence, often used in action descriptions. During the brawl, he began to lay about wildly. Pro Tip 2/3Wide Range Suggests hitting in many directions, not a single target. Cornered, the man started to lay about, hitting anyone near him. Pro Tip 3/3Sudden Outburst Can imply a sudden release of anger or frustration. Overwhelmed with frustration, she laid about the room, knocking things over.