In the Thai name phat khi mao, khi mao refers to a drunkard.
The phrase is best known from phat khi mao, commonly rendered in English as pad kee mao or drunken noodles. In Thai, phat means “to stir-fry,” while khi mao means “drunkard.” The name therefore points to a person who is drunk, not to an ingredient or a cooking technique.
The noodles are a spicy stir-fry usually made with broad rice noodles, garlic, chilies, fish sauce, soy sauce, meat or seafood, vegetables, and holy basil. Despite the English nickname “drunken noodles,” alcohol is not normally part of the dish. The name is associated with eating the dish after drinking, or with its intense seasoning.
The exact origin story is uncertain. Popular explanations say the dish was created from leftovers after a night of drinking, while others emphasize how its heat might revive an inebriated diner. Recipes vary widely, and vegetarian or fusion versions are also common.