What does lid mean?
A lid is a cover that closes a container, opening, or other object, usually one that can be removed, lifted, or hinged. The term is especially common for the covers of pots, jars, boxes, and other household containers, while “lid” can also refer to an eyelid. In informal speech, the word may stand for an eye, as in expressions such as “keep your lid shut.” Its meaning is generally practical and neutral: it denotes both the physical cover and, by extension, the act of covering or concealing something. Related forms include “lidded,” describing something with a lid, “lidless,” describing something without one, and “lidding,” meaning the act of putting a lid on or covering something.
A removable, hinged, or fitted cover for a container, opening, or object.
"The jar has a metal lid."
The word is especially common for household and kitchen containers, but it can refer to covers of many kinds.
To put a lid on something, especially to cover or conceal it.
"The shop lids each pot before packing it for delivery."
This use is less common than the noun and is often practical or informal.
The standard plural of lid is lids.
"The lids of the containers were stacked beside the sink."
From an Old English word for an opening or cover, a lid has come to mean anything that closes a vessel, conceals its contents, or helps a person blink.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lid come from?
The word comes from Old English hlid, meaning an opening, cover, or hinged barrier, and it developed into the modern sense of a movable cover. It is related to Old Norse hlid, which referred to an opening, door, or cover. The modern form is common in both British and American English.
Related word forms
How lid is actually used
The word is formal or neutral in general use. In informal British English, “lid” can also refer to the eye or eyelid, but “eyelid” is more formal and more precise.
Easily confused with lid
A lid is a cover or an eyelid, while a lied is the past tense and past participle of lie.