The phrase "lay wait for" refers to waiting or hiding in ambush for someone with the intention of attacking or harming them. There are several synonyms for this phrase, including lie in wait, ambush, waylay, and stalk. "Lie in wait" emphasizes the idea of waiting in a hidden or inconspicuous location to surprise a target. "Ambush" suggests a planned attack, often in a confined space or narrow passage. "Waylay" means to intercept or attack someone unexpectedly, often by surprise. "Stalk" refers to following someone in a sneaky or predatory manner to harm or besiege them. All of these synonyms imply a sense of danger or threat to the target.