This meaning refers to something continuing to exist or remain somewhere without moving or changing.
The documents had lain untouched for years.
Snow had lain on the road since morning.
This meaning refers to the position or location of a place, object, or area over a period of time.
The village had lain beneath the mountain for centuries.
The ruins had lain hidden under vegetation.
This figurative meaning refers to responsibility, explanation, danger, or potential existing in a particular source or condition.
Responsibility had lain with the board.
The real problem had lain in poor planning.
