lay something to rest

lay (something) to rest

1. To stop or finish discussing, thinking about, or focusing on something. OK, I think we have to agree to disagree. Let's just lay the issue to rest and stop arguing. Why are you still being so jealous? I thought we'd laid this all to rest ages ago.

2. To prove or demonstrate that something is false so as to resolve doubt or uncertainty around it. A: "You know, going out on the town with Andrew isn't going to lay the rumors about you two to rest." B: "I don't care what people say about us!"

See also: lay, rest, to

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

lay something to rest

or

put something to rest

If you lay something such as fears or rumours to rest or if you put them to rest, you succeed in proving that they are not true. His speech should lay those fears to rest. I am determined to put to rest these rumours that we are in financial trouble.

See also: lay, rest, something, to

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012

lay something to rest

soothe and dispel fear, anxiety, grief, and similar unpleasant emotions.

See also: lay, rest, something, to

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017

lay something to ˈrest

stop something by showing that it is not true: The media speculation about their relationship has finally been laid to rest.

See also: lay, rest, something, to

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017