What's the meaning behind 'Muay' in 'Muay Thai'?

[budgie]

Just curious...

So far the only explanation I've found is this:


Some believe that "Muay" is probably a derivation of "Mavya", Sanskrit - an ancient Indian language.
Mavya directly means "to make things united" but in term of Muay it may indirectly represent four elements of Muay which are created by binding or making united; Mongkon on the worrior's head; Prajied for worrior's biceps; Kaad Chuek of worrior's fists; and the uttering of incantations for worrior's spilit.

[PASmith]

I just thought it meant "boxing".
As in Muay Khmer (Boxing from Cambodia), Muay Boran (Ancient Boxing), Muay Thai (Boxing from Thailand) etc.
Which is why "Muay Thai boxing" is actually saying "Boxing Thai boxing".

That other info is interesting though. :)

[budgie]

Oh. I was hoping for some ancient philosophical meaning :p

[budgie]

Bump?

[altc]

Bump?

umm, like PASmith said, its just boxing mate...