Samdech (original) (raw)

Samdech (Khmer: សម្តេច [sɑmɗac]) is a Khmer honorific bestowed by the King of Cambodia to individuals deemed to have made significant contributions to the nation. It roughly translates as "lord". It is often accompanied by a longer title; for instance, Prime Minister Hun Sen's full title is Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen (meaning "Lord Supreme Military Commander Hun Sen"). Some members of the royal family and religious leaders also have "Samdech" as part of their title. In July 2016, the government ordered the media to use leaders' full titles.