Cheers

Cheers (interjection / UK Slang)

(Also heard as: Cheers mate, Cheers then, Cheers, ta)

Definition:

Cheers is a very British word with three jobs. It is what you say when you raise a glass for a toast. It is also a casual way of saying thank you. And in many parts of the UK it is a friendly way to say goodbye, as in “cheers, see you later”.

Where Cheers Comes From:

The word comes from the old French “chiere”, meaning face, and later came to mean mood or spirit. By the 1700s “cheer” meant good spirits, and “cheers” became a toast. The “thank you” meaning developed in Britain in the 20th century and is now extremely common, whereas Americans mostly use it only for toasts.

How People Actually Use Cheers:

You say “cheers” when someone holds a door open, gives you change or passes the salt. You say it to the bus driver as you get off. You say it clinking glasses in the pub. Used in emails, “cheers” is a friendly sign-off, and “cheers, mate” is a warm version.

Is Cheers Formal?

No. It is casual. In very formal settings, a full “thank you” is safer, although cheers is fine at work in most British offices.

Examples in the Wild:

• “Cheers for the lift.”

  Meaning: Thanks for driving me.

• “Cheers, everyone!” (raising a glass)

  Meaning: Here is to good health.

• “Right, I am off. Cheers!”

  Meaning: Goodbye and thanks.

Similar Slang:

Mate, Mucker, Cuppa, Safe, Sorted, Ta

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