Thai Terms Glossary Note : English spelling given here tries to approximate Thai pronunciation. Posted signs may be spelled differently. When seeking help from a Thai for directions, point to the Thai spellings given after each place name. Amphoe : District Khao : Mountain or rocky island Ao : Bay Khlong : Stream or canal Baan : Village or house Koh : Island  Chao Le : the sea gypsies Laem : Cape, point or headland Hat : Beach Nok : Outer Muang : Town or city Noi : Small Nai : Inner Yai : Big Namtok: Waterfall Rai : 1600 square meters (Flat Measure) Tham : Cave Tambon : Sub-Prefecture Wat : Thai temple Pak : Mouth (of a river, etc. The p in pak is pronounced much like b)