From The Food Encyclopedia by Jacques Rolland and Carol Sherman
1. (v.) the act of raising a glass within a group to honor a person and extend well wishes on special occasions. The tradition of toasting began in Greece before the 6th century BC. To assure guests that their wine was safe to drink, the host would raise his glass in a pledge of friendship and take the first sip. The Romans added a piece of toasted bread to the wine to reduce its acidity. 2. (v.) to cook directly over or under a heat source, such as an electric broiler element or an open flame, until dry, crisp and colored anywhere from light golden to dark brown. 3. (n.) a slice of bread that is toasted on both sides.
