   Layin’ LowIn Appalachian and Southern speech, "layin’ low" means keeping quiet, staying out of sight, or avoiding attention. It comes from the older English phrase "lay low," but the dropped "g" form is how it’s most often spoken in the region. Hillbilly Dude Says...  If we been sick and not been out, we might say we been layin’ low. Pronunciation[LAY-in loh] Meaning & Usage- To stay out of sight or avoid notice (verb phrase)
Mae:
Heard you been scarce.
Earl:
Yeah, just layin’ low till things cool off.- To rest quietly / not be active (verb phrase)
Mae:
What’d y’all do last week?
Earl:
Nothin’ much - just layin’ low at the house.other spellings: lay low ★ "Layin’ low" often carries a hint of avoiding gossip or trouble - not just resting, but keeping out of the spotlight. ★ OriginFrom the older English phrase "lay low," found as far back as Shakespeare. In Appalachia and the South, the clipped form "layin’ low" became the natural everyday version. NotesStill common in Southern and Appalachian talk. Nationally recognized too, but it sounds especially natural in rural and country settings. Say It Like a SouthernerSaid plain: "lay-in low." The "g" is almost never pronounced. | About We are a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia, but wide as the world. Read more... |
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