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Concept investigation: Cheers

by Stephany Jasmati

 

Dictionary definition

⦁ Cambridge dictionary
1) A friendly expression said just before you drink an alcoholic drink. Example :Cheers! Your good health.

2)Used to mean “Thank you”
Example :"I've bought you a drink." "Cheers, mate.“

3)Used to mean “goodbye”
Example: "Bye." "Cheers, see you next week."

Dictionary definition
⦁ Oxford dictionary
1)Expressing good wishes before drinking.
Example: ‘‘Cheers,’ she said, raising her glass’ or ‘But now we have and it should be read tongue in cheek and beer in hand - cheers!’

2)Expressing good wishes on parting or ending a conversation.
Example: ‘‘Cheers, Jack, see you later.’’

3)Expressing gratitude or acknowledgement for something.
Example: ‘Billy tossed him the key. ‘Cheers, pal.’’ or ‘The lads certainly appreciated your support - cheers!’

Dictionary definition
⦁ Macmillan dictionary

1)Used for expressing good wishes when holding a glass of alcohol, just before you drink it

2) “Thank you”
Example: ‘Here’s that book you wanted to borrow.’ ‘Oh, cheers.’

3)“Goodbye”

Dictionary definition
⦁ Dictionary.com

1) A shout of encouragement, approval, congratulation, etc
Example: The cheers of the fans filled the stadium.

2)A set or traditional form of shout used by spectators to encourage or show enthusiasm for an athletic team, contestant, etc., as rah! Rah ! rah!

3)Something that gives joy or gladness; encouragement; comfort: words of cheer.

Origin of the word

 

 

 

⦁ Legends

The "clinking" ritual, according to this theory, was a gesture to prove the safety of the drink. In time, the actual mixing of the two drinks was altered to become a gesture performed especially amongst trusted companions. However, this origin was quickly debunked, as tradition holds that the host always drinks first to test the nature of the drink. The practice continues today especially in regards to wine. I have found that this supposed origin, however, actually dates back only to a fictional plot twist penned by Alexandre Dumas in the late 1800's.