lay the first stone

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"This is the government and legislature that have the ambition to lay the first stone and start building this blessed project," said Matteo Salvini, the infrastructure minister and head of the League coalition party.

From Reuters • Nov. 22, 2022

After dinner, her eyes red with weeping, she went to the convent to try and soften Gerard, and lay the first stone at least of a reconciliation.

From The Cloister and the Hearth A Tale of the Middle Ages by Reade, Charles

They came, however, that Mrs. Fordyce might act lady of the house, and Anne be bridesmaid, as well as lay the first stone of St. Cecily’s restored chapel.

From Chantry House by Yonge, Charlotte Mary

At length, on 18th April 1645, the proud queen was able to lead the future king, a boy of seven years, to lay the first stone.

From The Story of Paris by Kimball, Katherine

The chaplain and his wife were already at work among them, and their little church only waiting for the bride to lay the first stone.

From Beechcroft at Rockstone by Yonge, Charlotte Mary