The term "lay forward" can be defined as placing an object or idea in front of someone or something else. Some antonyms for this phrase could include "push back," "retract," or "take away." These words suggest the opposite action of laying something forward - instead of presenting something, you're taking it away or pulling it back. Other potential antonyms might include "conceal," "hide," or "obscure," which would indicate that the object in question is not just being moved, but actively being hidden from view. Depending on the context, any of these antonyms could be useful, conveying a different idea and creating an important contrast with the original phrase.