Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Of or relating to the Lao people, a Buddhist ethnic group primarily inhabiting Laos and northeastern Thailand, or their culture and language.

2. Noun:

   • A member of the Lao people, an ethnic group native to the Mekong River region in Laos and Thailand.
   • The Tai-Kadai language spoken by the Lao people, which is the official language of Laos.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:

  • She studies Lao culture and traditions.
  • The Lao New Year festival is celebrated in April.

• Noun (Person):

  • He is a Lao from Vientiane.
  • The Lao have a rich history of weaving.

• Noun (Language):

  • Can you speak Lao?
  • The book is translated into Lao.

Advanced Usage

• "Lao" vs. "Laotian": While often used interchangeably, "Lao" can specifically refer to the ethnic group and language, whereas "Laotian" is a broader term for anything pertaining to the country of Laos, including its multi-ethnic citizenship.
  • The Lao language is spoken by ethnic Lao in Thailand. (Ethnic/Linguistic focus)
  • She is a Laotian citizen. (Nationality focus)

Variants and Related Words

• Laotian (adj/n): Pertaining to the country of Laos or its citizens.

  • The Laotian embassy issued a visa.

• Isan (n/adj): Refers to the Lao-speaking population and culture in northeastern Thailand.

  • Isan food is similar to Lao cuisine.

Synonyms

• Laotian (when referring to nationality or things from the country of Laos).

Related Phrases

• Lao script: The writing system used for the Lao language.

  • Learning Lao script is challenging for new learners.

• Lao Loum: Literally "Lowland Lao," the largest ethnic subgroup in Laos.

  • The Lao Loum primarily live along the Mekong River.

Adjective

1. of or relating to a member of the Buddhist people inhabiting the Mekong river in Laos and Thailand

Noun

1. the Tai language of a Buddhist people living in the area of the Mekong River in Thailand and Laos
2. a member of a Buddhist people inhabiting the area of the Mekong River in Laos and Thailand and speaking the Lao language; related to the Thais