1
general::
Phrase(s): laid up
[of people or things] immobilized for recuperation or repairs. • I was laid up for two weeks after my accident. • My car is laid up for repairs. • I was laid up with the flu for a week.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
1. Also, sick in bed. Ill and confined to bed, as in I was laid up for a week with the flu, or Sally can't come outside; she's sick in bed. [Mid-1500s] 2. Put in a safe place, as in The ship was laid up in dock with engine trouble, or The hikers were laid up in a cave during the storm. [Mid-1600s] Also see under LAY IN; LAY SOMEONE LOW.
American Heritage Idioms