When asking ChatGPT for the orgins of the word cheers, I got this answer:
“The word cheers has an interesting etymology rooted in Old French and Latin. It originates from the Old French word chiere, meaning “face” or “head,” which itself came from the Late Latin word cara, also meaning “face.” In Old French, chiere referred to a person’s countenance, appearance, or expression, often implying their mood or disposition.
By the time the word entered Middle English (around the 12th century), its meaning had broadened to encompass not only “face” but also the overall sense of mood, especially happiness or comfort. Phrases like “be of good cheer” became common, meaning to maintain a positive or joyful demeanor.
In the 18th century, cheer evolved into its modern usage, particularly in social drinking contexts. It became the go-to expression for offering goodwill or happiness when raising a glass, hence its modern meaning as a toast: cheers. The plural form cheers as we use it today was cemented in this period, making it a popular word in English-speaking countries for celebrating and wishing good fortune.
In more recent times, especially in British English, cheers also took on the meaning of “thank you” or a casual “goodbye,” but its roots in expressions of goodwill and encouragement remain strong.”
