lehayim

noun

le·​ha·​yim

variants or lechayim or lehayyim or lechayyim

ləˈḵäyə̇m,

-ˌyēm

plural -s

: a traditional Jewish toast

—often used interjectionally

raised his glass and said "lehayim! "

Word History

Etymology

Hebrew leḥayīm, literally, to life

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now