Raising a Glass: The Fascinating History and Global Traditions of Saying "Cheers"

Whether you are enjoying a peaty single malt Scotch, a velvety Cabernet Sauvignon, or a cold beer with friends, one ritual almost universally precedes that first sip: raising your glass and offering a toast.

Saying "cheers" is second nature to drinkers worldwide. Yet behind this simple gesture lies a rich history blending ancient superstitions, survival instincts, medieval politics, and a rich tapestry of cultural traditions. Here is the fascinating story behind why we say "cheers" along with what to say and how to drink across different cultures around the globe.

The Origins of Saying "Cheers" and Clinking Glasses

Etymology: From "Face" to "Good Health"

The word cheers stems from the Old French word chiere, which originally meant "face" or "expression." By the 14th century, the term entered Middle English as chere, evolving to mean one's mood or spirit hence the phrase "be of good cheer."

By the late 18th century, English drinkers began calling out "cheers!" as an encouraging expression of goodwill, wishing happiness, health, and good spirits to everyone sharing the table.

Why Do We Clink Glasses?

While the word itself has linguistic roots, the physical act of clinking glasses comes with several intriguing historical explanations:

• Wardening Off Evil Spirits:  In ancient times, people believed that alcohol harbored evil spirits. Clinking metal goblets or heavy clay mugs produced a ringing sound intended to scare away demons before taking a drink

• Engaging All Five Senses:  Wine and spirit appreciation naturally involves sight, smell, taste, and touch. The chime of clinking glass was thought to complete the ritual by adding the fifth sense: sound.

• A Matter of Survival (Poison Prevention):  A popular historical legend involves medieval royalty and political rivalries. Poisoning a rival’s drink was a common tactic for power grabs. To prove a drink was safe, host and guest would forcefully spill liquid into each other's cups before drinking. Over time, actual liquid sloshing turned into a symbolic, gentle clink of glasses.
  

How to Say "Cheers" Around the World

Different languages carry distinct meanings in their toasts ranging from simple wishes for good health to honour of friendship, victory, and emptying the glass.

Unique Drinking Traditions & Etiquette Across Cultures

While learning the words is straightforward, navigating local drinking etiquette around the world requires knowing a few key customs:

1. Eye Contact in France and Germany

In countries like France and Germany, direct eye contact during a toast is strictly enforced. Looking someone directly in the eyes while saying "Santé" or "Prost" and clinking glasses signifies respect, warmth, and sincerity. Legend has it that failing to make direct eye contact brings seven years of bad luck!

2. The Elaborate Tamada Toasts of Georgia

In the Republic of Georgia, drinking wine is a deeply spiritual and cultural experience. Feasts (known as a Supra) are led by a designated toastmaster called a Tamada. The Tamada delivers heartfelt, poetic toasts (Gaumarjos!  "Victory to you!") honoring family, history, peace, and ancestors. Drinking before the Tamada finishes a toast or failing to finish your glass afterward is considered bad form.

3. No Clinking Beer Glasses in Hungary

If you visit Hungary, avoid clinking beer glasses. After the 1848 Hungarian Revolution was suppressed by the Austrian Empire, legend says Austrian leaders celebrated by clinking beer mugs as Hungarian generals were executed. Hungarians vowed never to clink beer glasses for 150 years. Though that timeframe has passed, many locals still refrain from clinking beer steins today.

4. Eye Contact and Direct Touches in Scandinavia

In Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, the classic toast is Skål (originating from old Norse roots referring to a drinking bowl). The tradition demands that you raise your glass, make direct eye contact with every person at the table, sip your drink, and make eye contact once more before setting your glass down.

5. Japan: Respect and Kanpai!

In Japan, drinking is a social bonding ritual (nominication). You should never pour your own drink; instead, let your companion pour for you and reciprocate by filling their glass. Raise your glass with both hands when receiving a pour. Once everyone is filled, raise your glass and shout "Kanpai!"

6. Ireland & Scotland: Rounds and Wishing Sláinte

In both Ireland and Scotland, drinking culture centres on warmth, storytelling, and hospitality:

• In Ireland, calling out "Sláinte!" (Gaelic for "Health") is standard practice. If you are drinking in an Irish pub, respect the "round system": if someone buys you a drink, you are expected to buy a round for the group before the night ends.
  
  
• In Scotland, the full Gaelic toast is "Slàinte mhath!" ("Good health!"), to which the customary reply is "Slàinte mhòr!" ("Great health!"). When sharing a dram of Scotch whisky, it is common to raise the glass toward your drinking companion before taking a sip.

7. South Korea: Respecting Social Hierarchy

In South Korea, saying "Geonbae!" (건배) comes with distinct social protocols when drinking with elders or colleagues:

• Hold your glass with both hands when receiving a pour or making a toast.
  
  
• When clinking glasses with someone older or senior in rank, ensure the rim of your glass touches below theirs as a sign of humility.
  
  
• Turn your head and body slightly away from the table when taking the drink so you aren't drinking directly in front of the elder.

8. Thailand: Friendly Chon Gaeo!

In Thailand, toasts are casual, warm, and highly social. The most common phrase is "Chon gaeo!" (literally "clink glasses!"). You will also frequently hear "Chok dee!" which translates to "Good luck!" It is common for Thais to keep glasses filled with ice and beer or spirits throughout the evening.

9. Taiwan: The Art of Yigan (Bottoms Up!)

Taiwanese drinking culture revolves around generous toasts at formal dinners, weddings, and business gatherings. While "Ganbei!" means "dry the cup," you will often hear "Yigan!" (一乾), which translates to "bottoms up in one go!" When a host or colleague raises a glass for a toast, finishing your glass completely demonstrates respect and camaraderie.

Conclusion: Raising a Glass Together

Whether you are enjoying a fine single malt whisky, sharing a craft beer, or tasting wine among good company, saying "cheers" is far more than a simple habit. It is a timeless gesture that bridges centuries of history, honours local traditions, and brings people together.

The next time you pour your favourite dram, take a moment to look your companions in the eye, raise your glass, and join a global tradition. Slàinte mhath!