An exclamation used when toasting with drinks, or an expression of approval and encouragement. Also plural of cheer, meaning shouts of praise or support.
From Old French 'chiere' meaning 'face, countenance,' which evolved to mean 'mood' and then 'good mood' in Middle English. The drinking toast usage developed in the 18th century from the idea of raising someone's spirits or 'cheering them up.'
The word 'cheers' literally meant 'face' originally - so when we say 'cheers' while toasting, we're essentially saying 'good face' or 'happy expression' to each other. This explains why the word is so closely tied to both facial expressions and celebratory moods.
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