Thai culture words

Songkran, the Thai New Year (13-15 April)

to float a krathong

haha (typed 555 in chats: five is hâa)

to wai (greet with palms together)

idiom, saying

slang (literally 'teen words')

swear word, rude word

belief

Kham Mueang, Northern Thai

to make merit (do good deeds, give at a temple)

to give food to monks on their morning alms round

tradition, custom

to pour water over an elder's hands for a blessing (Songkran)

to bless, to give someone your good wishes

may … (starts a wish or blessing)

to splash, to throw (water)

krathong, a small float of banana leaves, flowers and a candle

to float

to let go, release

to make a wish (silently, like a prayer)

memory, memories

ghost, spirit

hooray! cheers!

ramwong, Thai circle dance

unity, solidarity

to sacrifice, give up

to fight (a war)

to be victorious

the Buddha

Buddhist amulet

chedi, stupa

to be ordained, to become a monk

to pray, to chant (Buddhist prayers)

the start of Buddhist Lent, the rains retreat

Muay Thai, Thai boxing

the King (respectful everyday word)

a tattoo

the lottery (everyday word)

Mother's Day (12 August)

a debt of gratitude, a kindness owed

high society, posh (from 'high society')

national flag

naga, the great serpent of Buddhist legend