How to Pronounce Sirikit

Meaning and Context

Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, Queen Mother of Thailand, was the beloved consort of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and served as Queen Regent of Thailand from 1956 until her husband's passing in 2016, after which she became known as the Queen Mother. Born Mom Rajawongse Sirikit Kitiyakara on August 12, 1932, her life has been inextricably linked with the modern history and cultural identity of the Thai nation. Renowned for her grace, diplomacy, and profound dedication to public service, Queen Sirikit played a pivotal role in supporting the monarchy's development projects and was a passionate advocate for the preservation of Thai silk and traditional arts. Her extensive patronage of the Foundation for the Promotion of Supplementary Occupations and Related Techniques (SUPPORT) helped revitalize rural handicrafts and empower local communities, cementing her legacy as a cornerstone of Thai culture and a revered figure in the Chakri dynasty. Her official title, Somdet Phra Nang Chao Sirikit Phra Borommarachininat, reflects her esteemed position within the royal family and the deep affection held for her by the Thai people.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The name "Sirikit" is typically spelled consistently in English, as it is a direct transliteration from the Thai language (สิริกิติ์). However, common errors or variations often arise from phonetic misspellings or typographical slips. One may occasionally encounter "Sirkit" or "Sirikrit," which omit or misplace the central 'i'. Another frequent typo is "Siritkit," transposing the 't' and the 'k'. In Thai, the name is a compound of two words: "siri" (สิริ), meaning glory or splendor, and "kit" (กิติ์), meaning prestige or fame, which is important to note as the 't' in the transliteration is part of the second syllable's beginning, not the end of the first. When writing her full title, common mistakes include omitting the "r" in "Borommarachininat" or misspelling it as "Borommarajininat." It is also crucial to maintain the correct honorifics, as referring to her simply as "Sirikit" without the preceding "Queen" or "Her Majesty" would be considered disrespectful in formal contexts.

Example Sentences

Following the coronation of her son, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, in 2019, Queen Sirikit was formally bestowed the title of Queen Mother, continuing her legacy of quiet dignity.

Historians often note that Queen Sirikit's regency in 1956, during King Bhumibol's period of monastic retreat, marked a significant moment of confidence in her capabilities.

The Queen Sirikit Department of Sericulture stands as a lasting testament to her lifelong commitment to promoting Thai silk on the world stage.

During the annual celebrations for Her Majesty's birthday, which is also observed as Thailand's Mother's Day, the color blue is prominently displayed across the nation as a symbol of reverence.

Many of the exquisite traditional costumes she wore during state visits, now housed in the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles, have inspired designers for generations.

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