What is the antonym for flay?

The antonym for "flay" depends on the context, as it can have two main meanings:

1. To strip the skin from: In this sense, an antonym could be "cover," "protect," "shield," or "preserve."

2. To criticize harshly: In this sense, an antonym could be "praise," "commend," "applaud," "endorse," or "support."

For example:

* "Flay" meaning to strip skin:

* Antonym: "The doctor protected the wound with a bandage."

* "Flay" meaning to criticize harshly:

* Antonym: "The reviewer praised the author's new book."

It's important to consider the context to choose the most accurate antonym.