slàinte
/ˈslaːnt͡ʃə/
slàinte is the Gaelic way to say cheers.
The word is used as a toast when drinking, similar to the English 'cheers' or 'to your health'.
Meaning: toast when drinking (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word slàinte literally means 'health'.
Which one should you use?
While slàinte is a standard toast, you may encounter the variation slàinte mhath, which means 'good health'. In parts of Scotland, the phrase slàinte mhór agad! is used to mean 'Great health to you!'
Is it said differently in some regions?
The variation slàinte mhath is a common toast used in Scotland. The phrase slàinte mhór agad! is also used in parts of Scotland. In Irish Gaelic, the phrase Slàinte chuig na fir, agus go mairfidh na mná go deo translates to 'health to the men and may the women live forever'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈslaːntʃə/
Did you know?
- The word slàinte shares an ancient root with the English word 'salutary', which describes something that is beneficial or promotes health.
- While English speakers often use 'cheers' to say 'thank you', using slàinte in this way would be incorrect as it is strictly for drinking or wishing health.
- The variation slàinte mhath demonstrates a linguistic feature called lenition, where the 'h' changes the sound of the 'm' to a 'v' sound.
Examples in context
- Slàinte mhath!Good health!
- Slàinte gu mòr!A big cheers!
- Slàinte dhuibh uile.Cheers to you all.
Example conversation
Callum and Isla are having a drink at a pub.
- CallumSeo glas glais dhut, Isla.Here is a glass for you, Isla.
- IslaTaiseach, a Chaluim!Thanks, Callum!
- CallumSlàinte!Cheers!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “cheers” translations and entries slàinte, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries slàinte, CC BY-SA 4.0.
