lay to

lay to  {v.}
1. To give the blame or credit to; to name as cause.
He was unpopular and when he made money, it was laid to his dishonesty, but when he lost money, it was laid to his stupidity.
2. To hold a ship or boat still against the wind.
The pirates decided to lay to that night and go ashore in the morning.
Compare: LIE TO.
3. To exert oneself; to work hard.
He picked up a shovel and laid to with the rest of the gang.
Categories: blame money {v.}