Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

lay it on thick

idiom

leɪ ɪt ɒn θɪk

Definition

To exaggerate or overstate something, often in a way that is intended to persuade or impress someone.

Examples

During his speech, he really laid it on thick about the company’s achievements, making it hard to believe everything he said.
She was so excited about her promotion that she laid it on thick when talking to her friends about it.

Meaning

When someone is said to ‘lay it on thick,’ they are emphasizing their praise or feelings in an exaggerated manner, sometimes to the point of insincerity.