Why Do People Say “Cheers” Before Drinking? And What’s the Deal with Clinking Glasses?
Why Do People Say "Cheers" Before Drinking? And What's the Deal with Clinking Glasses?
You know how it goes — whether you’re at a party, celebrating something special, or just hanging out with friends, someone always raises a glass and says, “Cheers!” It might not even be alcohol — sometimes it’s soda, juice, or even water — but the ritual feels the same. You raise your glass, maybe make a toast, clink it gently against someone else’s, and take that first sip together. It’s a moment. But have you ever paused to wonder why do we do this?
Saying “Cheers” has become such a natural part of celebrating that most of us don’t even think twice about it. But like many traditions, it has deeper roots — and some pretty fascinating stories behind it.
The word “cheers” itself comes from the old French word “chiere”, which originally meant “face” or “head.” Over time, its meaning shifted toward expressing a good mood, encouragement, or joy — the kind of emotion you’d want to share with people around you. Eventually, it became a way to say, “Let’s celebrate,” or “Here’s to good times ahead.” So nowadays, when we say “cheers”, we’re really just marking the start of a happy moment.
Then there’s the clinking of glasses — that satisfying little clink that usually goes hand-in-hand with a toast. It might seem like a small gesture, but it actually has some symbolic and even sensory significance. Think about it: when you’re about to take a sip, your senses are already engaged. You see the color of the drink, you smell its aroma, you taste it, and you feel the cool glass in your hand. The only sense that’s missing? Sound. That’s where the clink comes in — a way to include your hearing in the whole experience. It turns a simple drink into a full five-sense ritual.
Of course, that’s the modern interpretation. If you go back further, some cultures had other reasons for the clinking sound. In certain old German traditions, it was believed that the noise of glasses striking each other would scare away evil spirits or bad energy. By creating that sound, people were offering protection and positivity as they drank — a kind of toast to good health and good luck.
Whether it’s rooted in culture, superstition, or simply the joy of being together, this small gesture has stood the test of time. It’s a shared moment — one that’s less about the drink itself, and more about the connection between the people holding the glasses. Cheers to that.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and explores cultural and historical interpretations behind common drinking traditions.
