Kratom is a natural herb that many people use for energy, focus, or relief. Every month, thousands of people search on Google for how to pronounce it, just to avoid embarrassment when saying it wrong while talking to sellers or other users. The challenge is, people say it in different ways. Some say KRAY-tum, others say KRAT-um, and in Thailand, where the plant comes from, it’s often said as kruh TOM. Many also wonder how to say names like Sabai Kratom and Maeng Da Kratom. In this post, we’ll explain how to pronounce them all, clearly and correctly.

How to pronounce kratom in English?

As the kratom herb becomes more popular in the USA, many people try to say it in a clear, English way. But even in American English, there’s not just one “correct” way to pronounce it. People often say it in three main ways, and each is accepted in different circles.

KRAYtum

The first and most popular way to pronounce it is KRAY-tum. This version sounds like “cray” in the word crayon. It’s often used by kratom sellers, online communities, and YouTubers. Many people prefer this pronunciation because it sounds smooth and is easy to remember. You’ll hear it a lot in the U.S., especially among those who are involved in kratom advocacy or education.

KRATum

Another common version is KRAT-um. This one sounds like the word rat with a “k” at the beginning. It follows typical American English pronunciation rules, like how we say atom. You might hear this version in casual conversations or in areas where people naturally use a short “a” sound. It feels more direct and is easy to say quickly, which makes it popular in daily speech.

KRAHtum

The third version, which is a little less common, is KRAH-tum. In this pronunciation, the “a” sounds like it does in the word car. It’s a softer way of saying it and is sometimes used in different parts of the English-speaking world. While you won’t hear it as often, it’s still a valid way to say the word.

How do Thai people pronounce kratom?

In Thailand, kratom is called กระท่อม, which is romanized as krathom or kratɔ̂m. Thai speakers usually pronounce it as “kruh-TOM,” with the stress on the second part. The “r” in Thai is lightly rolled, almost like a soft “d” sound in some areas. The “k” is gentle, not as hard as in English. Also, Thai is a tonal language, which means the pitch of your voice matters. Even though non-Thai speakers don’t need to copy the tone perfectly, it helps to be aware of the smoother, flowing sound. Many people choose to say kratom the way Thai people do to honour the herb's origin. 

How do I pronounce Sabai Kratom?

The word Sabai (สะบาย) is a Thai term that means comfort, peace, or well-being. It’s often used in everyday greetings like “sabai dee” which means “how are you?” or “I’m fine.” When saying Sabai, it should sound like “sah-BAI,” with the second syllable “BAI” spoken a little louder and clearer than the first. The “sah” is soft, and “bai” rhymes with “eye.”

When putting it together with “kratom,” you can say either “sah-BAI KRAY-tum” or “sah-BAI KRAT-um,” depending on your preferred English version of kratom. If you're talking to someone familiar with Thai culture, “sah-BAI kruh-TOM” is also correct. Each version is understood, but the emphasis on “sah-BAI” helps keep the Thai meaning clear and respectful.

How to pronounce Maeng Da Kratom?

Maeng Da is a special name for one of the most popular kratom strains. In Thai slang, it means “pimp grade,” which refers to something high-quality or extra strong. It’s used to describe kratom leaves that are more potent or premium. Many people use this kind because they believe it offers stronger effects.

To pronounce Maeng Da, start with “Maeng”.It sounds like “mang,” rhyming with “hang” or “bang,” but with a soft “ng” at the end. Then say “Da” as “dah,” like in the word “dollar” without the “r.” So the full Thai-style name sounds like “Mang-dah.”
When you add the word kratom, you again have choices depending on your style or region. You can say:

“Mang-dah KRAY-tum” (common in the U.S.)
“Mang-dah KRAT-um” (used in casual English conversation)
Or even “Mang-dah kruh-TOM” (closer to Thai)

Which pronunciation is correct? English, Thai, Sabai or Maeng Da?

It’s really up to you how you want to say kratom. If you want to show respect for its Thai roots, you can use the Thai style — kruh-TOM. If you're speaking in English, KRAY-tum or KRAT-um are both correct. Trusted dictionaries like Merriam-Webster and Oxford accept both. Some people also say KRAH-tum. For names like Sabai Kratom (sah-BAI KRAY-tum) or Maeng Da Kratom (mang-dah KRAT-um), any version is okay. Say it the way that feels right to you—what matters most is being clear and understood.

FAQs

Why does kratom have so many pronunciation variations?

Kratom has roots in Southeast Asia but gained popularity in Western countries. The name was adopted into English without a set pronunciation, leading to different versions like KRAY-tum, KRAT-um, and kruh-TOM.

Do kratom sellers care how I pronounce it?

Most don’t mind—as long as you’re clear. Whether you say KRAY-tum, KRAT-um, or kruh-TOM, sellers usually understand and won’t correct you.

Is it disrespectful to say kratom the Western way?

Not at all. Many users say it in the way that’s common in their region. But if you want to honour the herb’s Thai roots, using the Thai pronunciation (kruh-TOM) is a nice gesture.

Does pronunciation vary by kratom type or strain?

No. Whether it’s Red Bali, Maeng Da, or Green Malay, pronunciation rules apply the same way. The difference lies in the names—not how “kratom” is said.

Should I change my pronunciation if others say it differently?

It’s up to you. If you’re in a group where everyone says KRAY-tum or kruh-TOM, you can adapt to match. Otherwise, stick with what feels natural and easy for you.