The word "laid ruins" refers to the destruction or devastation of something. It can be associated with words like demolished, razed, wrecked, or destroyed. Antonyms for "laid ruins" would be words that represent growth, construction, or stability. Words like developed, built, erected, or restored come to mind. These antonyms represent the opposite of destruction and signify the creation of something valuable. While "laid ruins" can indicate destruction due to natural disasters, war, or neglect, the antonyms suggest a positive connotation of progress, development, and renewal. Choosing the right antonym can help shift the context of the phrase and convey a completely different meaning.