skál
The Old Norse word for the toast "cheers" is skál.
skál is used as an interjection when making a toast while drinking.
Meaning: toast when drinking (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word skál literally means "bowl" or "cup".
When do people say it?
While used as a toast, the phrase Skál! literally refers to a "bowl" or "shell".
Did you know?
- In Old Norse culture, the act of drinking from a 'skál' was often a ritualized way to solidify a pact or oath between leaders.
- Viking Age drinking horns were often used for skál, but the word refers to the shallow bowls that were passed around the table.
- The word skál is etymologically related to the English word 'shell', as both derive from a common root describing a hollow container.
Examples in context
- Skál!Cheers!
- Lát oss segja skál.Let us say cheers.
- Heill ok skál!Health and cheers!
Example conversation
Olaf and Sigrid are drinking together at a feast.
- OlafSkál, Sigrid!Cheers, Sigrid!
- SigridSkál, Olaf!Cheers, Olaf!
- OlafDrekkum vit saman.Let us drink together.
- SigridJá, skál!Yes, cheers!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries skál, CC BY-SA 4.0.
