The old ways of saying "cheers" trace back to earlier forms such as "makien cheres" in 1225 AD and "what chere be with you?" in the 14th century, which served as a common greeting.
The Evolution of "Cheers"
The word "cheers" has a fascinating etymological journey, evolving significantly over centuries to reach its modern usage as a toast or informal expression. Understanding its history sheds light on how language adapts and meanings shift over time.
Earliest Forms and Meanings
- "Makien Cheres" (1225 AD): The earliest recorded form related to "cheers" appeared around 1225 AD as "makien cheres." At this very early stage, 'chere' (or 'cheres') likely referred to one's countenance or facial expression. This suggests an initial connection to one's appearance or demeanor.
- "What Chere Be With You?" (14th Century): By the 14th century, the phrase evolved into "what chere be with you?" This was a widespread greeting in England, often used to inquire about a person's mood, disposition, or general well-being, similar to asking "How are you faring?" or "What's your mood?"
Shift to "Good Humor"
Over time, the meaning of 'chere' began to specifically signify good humor, cheerfulness, or a positive disposition. This evolution was crucial, as it moved the word closer to the celebratory and goodwill connotations we associate with "cheers" today.
Modern Usage
The familiar "cheers" that we use today, whether as a toast, a thank you, or a farewell, was first recorded in its written form in 1919. This marks the point where the long history of 'chere' culminated in the common, versatile expression we know.
Timeline of "Cheers" Evolution
To illustrate the journey of this word, here's a brief timeline:
| Period | Phrase / Meaning Evolution | Context / Original Implication |
|---|---|---|
| 1225 AD | "makien cheres" | Early recorded form, likely related to one's face. |
| 14th Century | "what chere be with you?" | Common English greeting, asking about one's disposition. |
| Later Shift | 'chere' means good humor | The word began to specifically denote a positive mood. |
| 1919 | "cheers" (modern usage) | First written as the familiar toast or expression. |
This progression highlights how a word's meaning can broaden and specialize, adapting to new social contexts and linguistic trends over many centuries.
