Langimage
English

layman's

|lay/man/'s|

B2

/ˈleɪmənz/

(layman)

non-expert

Base FormPlural
laymanlaymen
Etymology
Etymology Information

'layman' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'laicman,' where 'laic' meant 'of the people' and 'man' meant 'person.'

Historical Evolution

'laicman' transformed into the modern English word 'layman' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a person who is not a member of the clergy,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a non-expert or non-specialist.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

relating to or characteristic of a layman; simple or non-technical.

The guide is written in layman's terms to make it accessible to everyone.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40