“Sawatdee” is well known as a Thai greeting but not many people know the origins of the word or even know it has a meaning at all.
The word “Sawatdee” was first introduced by Chulalongkorn University professor Phraya Upakit Silpasarn around 70 years ago. It actually originates from the Sanskrit word “Sawat” (สวัสดิ์), meaning goodness, fairness and prosperity.
Before the introduction of this phrase Thai people would tend to greet each other asking:
Where have you been?
Have you eaten yet?
Are you well?
These styles of greeting reflect Thai concerns of eating well, life and health.
Nowadays you will still hear Thai people still ask people they know these questions both within cities and rural areas.
Thai people also greet one another using body language such as waving, bowing or performing a “wai” (ไหว้).