Lao

[ lou ]

noun

, plural Laos [louz], (especially collectively) Lao

1. a member of a people of Laos and northern Thailand.
2. the Tai language of the Lao.

adjective

1. of or relating to the Lao or their language.

LAO

¹

abbreviation for

1. Laos (international car registration)

Lao

²

/ laʊ /

adjective

1. another name for Laotian

Word History and Origins

Origin of Lao¹

First recorded in 1880–85; from Lao Láo, a self-designation

Example Sentences

Bestselling author of Flags of Our Fathers shares his favorite reads, from Lao Tzu to Kurt Vonnegut.

From The Daily Beast

We embraced, and before the others could press forward to salute me, I gave the jhirnee: "Pan lao!"

From Project Gutenberg

This man was called Lao-tse, a recluse and philosopher, who was already an old man when Confucius began his travels.

From Project Gutenberg

Don Torribio occupied himself by doubling up his lao several times in his right hand.

From Project Gutenberg

"Your mind is widely opened, esteemed," replied Lao Ting respectfully.

From Project Gutenberg

In spite of the admittedly rough-edged nature of Hoa-mi's leave-taking, Lao Ting retraced his steps in an exalted frame of mind.

From Project Gutenberg