I. ˈchir noun
Etymology: Middle English chere face, cheer, from Anglo-French, face, from Medieval Latin cara, probably from Greek kara head, face — more at cerebral
Date: 13th century
1.
a. obsolete : face
b. archaic : facial expression
2. : state of mind or heart : spirit
be of good cheer — Matthew 9:2(Authorized Version)
3. : lightness of mind and feeling : animation , gaiety
4. : hospitable entertainment : welcome
5. : food and drink for a feast : fare
6. : something that gladdens
words of cheer
7. : a shout of applause or encouragement
II. verb
Date: 14th century
transitive verb
1.
a. : to instill with hope or courage : comfort — usually used with up
b. : to make glad or happy — usually used with up
2. : to urge on or encourage especially by shouts
cheer ed the team on
3. : to applaud with shouts
intransitive verb
1. obsolete : to be mentally or emotionally disposed
2. : to grow or be cheerful : rejoice — usually used with up
3. : to utter a shout of applause or triumph
• cheer·er noun