THE FIRST WORD

wassail

PRONUNCIATION:

(WOS-uhl, wo-SAYL) 

MEANING:

verb tr.:	To toast.
verb intr.:	To go from house to house singing carols at Christmas.
noun:	1. A toast to someone's health.
	2. A festivity with much drinking.
	3. A drink for toasting, especially spiced ale.
	4. The singing of Christmas carols going from house to house.

ETYMOLOGY:

From Old Norse ves heill (be well). Earliest documented use: 1275.

USAGE:

"Cows and oxen used to be wassailed too for the same reason, to bring luck and encourage good health in the coming year."
Days Lengthen, Cold Strengthens; Beverley Guardian (UK); Jan 16, 2012.