v. phr. 1. To seize in order to punish or treat roughly. If I ever lay my hands on that boy he'll be sorry.
Compare: LAY A FINGER ON. 2. To get possession of. He was unable to lay his hands on a Model T Ford for the school play.
Compare: LAY HANDS ON 1 . 3. or lay one's hand on or put one's hand on To find; locate. He keeps a file of letters so he can lay his hands on one whenever he needs it.