Nicknames from Thai boys

If a Thai boy is shy about telling you what his nickname means, he might have a good reason. Thai children are officially named by a Buddhist monk when they are at least 30 days old. In the meantime, their parents give them a nickname - and it usually sticks.

The Thais are a superstitious race. To protect their children from the envious attention of demons, Thai parents tend to choose nicknames that are unremarkable or downright unflattering. A pencil-thin Thai boy could live his whole life being called fatty (Uan).

Here are some off the meanings of common nicknames for Thai boys. Sure there are a lot more nicknames.

Fon Rain
Gai Chicken
Gop Frog
Gung Prawn
Lek Small
Mai New
Moo Pig
Neung One
Nit Tiny
Noi Little
Nok Bird
Uan Fat
Yai Big
Ying Female

Ying was the name from my Thaifriend in Pattaya last Feb. and he (she ), was shy about his (here), name ! " Monty named him (her), Yai ( big ). " I am sure Monty is much better in tipping names ! :clown:

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