Lay figure puts out a fire that's not much to look at (4)

I believe the answer is:

ugly

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'lay' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are adjectives. Maybe you can see a link between them that I can't see?

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ugly that I've seen before include "Unpleasing to the eye" , "Revolting" , "Far from beautiful" , "Like an eyesore" , "Not easy on the eye" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times (Crosaire) and the Irish Times.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app