Moo Deng

What does the name หมูเด้ง (mǔu dêng) actually mean? Discover the story behind the world-famous pygmy hippo from Khao Kheow Open Zoo, and find out why a romanised name like “Deng” can be read in so many different ways in Thai. Explore the viral memes, online comments and dubbed videos about Moo Deng, while picking up natural, expressive Thai used to describe animals, appearance, food and feelings.

Thai Vocabulary:
เด้ง (dêng) – To bounce / springy
แคระ (krɛ́) – Dwarf / pygmy
เหนียง (nǐang) – Double chin
สวบ (sùap) – To nip / gum-bite
อึด (ʉ̀t) – To have great stamina
คุ้นเคย (kún-kəəi) – Familiar
เกินต้าน (gəən dtâan) – Unstoppable

Keep listening to real Thai and watch your understanding grow, one story at a time!

Up next

The Odors of Thailand

Why do so few people in Thailand seem to have body odour, despite the heat and humidity? This lesson looks at how food such as garlic, fish sauce, durian, sator and cha-om affects the way we smell, what people from different countries say about each other’s scents, and the everyday tricks Thai people use to stay fresh, from kaffir lime slices in bathrooms to fabric softener and showering twice a day. You’ll also hear about musty clothes in the rainy season and some colourful Thai slang for armpit odour. Thai Vocabulary: กลิ่นตัว (glìn tua) – Body odour เคล็ดลับ (khlét-láp) – Tip / trick น้ำยาปรับผ้านุ่ม (náam-yaa pràp phâa nûm) – Fabric softener เหม็นอับ (měn àp) – Musty / stale smell กลิ่นเต่า (glìn tào) – Armpit odour (slang) Listening to real conversations about everyday life helps you pick up natural Thai expressions. Keep listening, keep learning, and enjoy your Thai journey!

Moo Deng

Comments (0)