during celebrations people clink glasses and say "cheers", what is the origin of this?

Answer 1

The Romans used to do it before going into battle as a sign of solidarity. It was called "Rudya" and meant "Our souls are one."

Answer 2

"What about the origin of "toasting"? As drink goes, wine has always been central to the wedding, even mentioned in the Bible. The first recorded toast was given at a Saxony feast in 450A.D. by a woman who became a bride herself before the end of the evening. British King Vortigern was so moved by the sentiment-- a simple "Lord King, be of health," offered by Rowena, daughter of the Saxony leader Hengist, that he proceeded to make passionate love to her. Intoxicated by the drink, possible love and definitely greed, he then bargained with Hengist for her hand."

Ok, so that answer was completely plagarised, but I'm trying to offer good answers... My theory? We want an excuse to drink. I'm all for the toasting... in fact *grabs glass* Here's to Yahoo! Answers *clinks, drinks, smiles*

Answer 3

I know that one reason is to involve all five senses when drinking wine or champagne. Touching glasses adds the sense of hearing to the occation. Obviously taste, sight, smell, and touch are already there.

Answer 4

people used to clink glasses to ease some of their drink into the other persons cup (theirs had poison in it, they were trying to kill their 'enemy') but as time went on people kept the tradition, but stop trying to poison others ~thank goodness!~

Answer 5

Each culture has a "drink" blessing. Get a bar book of "cheers" and create new ones...its really fun!

Answer 6

this started with the Romans before they would enter battle with the Celts to warn off evil druid priest. they feared them because of there ability to disappear 1500 bc who were the celts.

Answer 7

it is called 'raising a toast'