Toosten

Toosten is a Dutch verb meaning to raise a glass and drink in honor of someone or something, i.e., to offer a toast. It is most often used in celebratory contexts, such as weddings, birthdays, or New Year’s Eve gatherings. The action may be accompanied by a short utterance or speech, and is often followed by clinking of glasses.

Etymology and usage: The origin of toosten is not definitively established, but it is a West Germanic loanword related to the general practice of toasting in drinking rituals. The common construction is toosten op [someone or something], for example toosten op de gezondheid or toosten op het jubileum. The related phrase een toost uitbrengen is used for delivering a toast in speech.

Cultural notes: In Dutch-speaking regions, toasting is a standard social ritual at festive occasions. In many settings, participants briefly raise their glasses, evoke a wish or blessing, and then drink. The verb proosten is also widely used as a synonym in everyday speech.

Variations: Some speakers prefer proosten or zeggen proost when addressing the group. While the core meaning remains the same, there are regional or stylistic differences in how formal or ceremonial the toast is.