Langimage
English

laypersons

|lay-per-sons|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈleɪˌpɜrsənz/

🇬🇧

/ˈleɪˌpɜːsənz/

(layperson)

non-expert

Base FormPluralPlural
laypersonlaypeoplelaypersons
Etymology
Etymology Information

'layperson' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'lay,' where 'lay' meant 'non-clerical' and 'person' referred to an individual.

Historical Evolution

'lay' changed from the Old English word 'læwede' and eventually became the modern English word 'lay' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'non-clerical person,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'non-expert or non-professional person.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a non-expert or non-professional person; someone who is not a member of a particular profession or specialized field.

The medical jargon was difficult for laypersons to understand.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45