lieu

[ loo ]

noun

1. place; stead.

lieu

/ ljuː; luː /

noun

1. stead; place (esp in the phrases in lieu, in lieu of )

Word History and Origins

Origin of lieu¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; from Middle French, from Latin locus “place”; replacing Middle English liue, from Old French liu, from Latin; locus

Word History and Origins

Origin of lieu¹

C13: from Old French, ultimately from Latin locus place

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. in lieu of, in place of; instead of:

   He gave us an IOU in lieu of cash.

More idioms and phrases containing lieu

see under instead of .

Example Sentences

The latter was the team’s longest offensive play of the season and came on a zero blitz, meaning the Patriots sent more pass rushers in lieu of keeping a safety back to help in coverage.

From Los Angeles Times

He was booked at the Torrance Police Department and is being held in lieu of $500,000 bail, according to authorities.

From Los Angeles Times

Nino apologizes profusely to the dazed Gianni — who was fleeing bullies — and leaves him, in lieu of contact information, with a crumpled sketch of fireworks.

From New York Times

In lieu of a legal marriage, you’ll need to get your documents in order so you have similar rights and protections.

From Salon

They also asked that donations be made to the Jazz Foundation of America in lieu of flowers.

From Los Angeles Times