So Sethaputra | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | February 10, 1904 Thonburi |
| Died | September 8, 1970 (aged 66) Bangkok |
| Occupation(s) | Journalist, lexicographer, politician |
| Known for | Compiling the New Model English–Thai Dictionary |
So Sethaputra (Thai: สอ เสถบุตร, pronounced [sɔ̌ː sèːt.tʰa.bùt], RTGS: So Setthabut; 10 February 1904 – 8 September 1970) was a Thai writer, journalist, and politician, best known as the compiler of the New Model English–Thai Dictionary, one of the most popular English–Thai dictionaries of the 20th century.
So graduated from England on a royal government scholarship, and worked in the government of King Prajadhipok in last years of absolute monarchy, writing for newspapers on the side. He was implicated in the Boworadet Rebellion in 1933 against the new constitutional government, and became a political prisoner at Bang Kwang, Tarutao and Ko Tao until 1944, during which he compiled his seminal work, manuscripts of which were smuggled out of prison and published serially from 1937 to 1940. Following his release, he briefly entered politics as a representative for Thonburi Province from 1946 to 1947 and as a government minister for three months between 1947 and 1948, after which he returned to writing and publishing. His dictionary continues to be used, and has received renewed interest for the political undertones present in his definitions and usage examples.