wai
2
9.9
A Thai greeting where you press your palms together and bow slightly
- noun
:
wai
- What you do not know is that some Imperial troops under General Wai... have moved into the hills today.
Examples
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In Thailand, people often greet each other with a wai to show respect.
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Second: General Wai confers upon you the honor of contributing to his supply.
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How much time will General Wai permit me?
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General Wai has decided to favor you with several requests.
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The teacher responded to the students' wai with a smile and a nod.
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During the ceremony, everyone performed a wai to honor the guests.
Synonyms
6
7.0
A respectful gesture made by pressing the hands together and bowing slightly
is specific to Thailand rather than South Asia
Surface Forms
Etymology
The word wai comes from Thai and names the prayer-like greeting where you press your palms together and bow a little, like the Indian greeting namaste. A wai is therefore a way 'to show respect' and say hello without words.