Alaverdi (expression)
Georgian expression related to toasting
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Etymology
Usage and function
The use of alaverdi is a key element in managing the structure and flow of a Georgian supra.[2]
As a toast competition
Alaverdi can be a ritualized toast competition among the men at the table.[3] The tamada begins by proposing a toast on a specific topic.[3] Other men must then modify and elaborate on this topic in subsequent toasts.[3] The tamada symbolically grants his power of speech to another participant, who becomes the temporary tamada and the center of attention.[4]
In formal contexts, the competition is to determine "who is the best" speaker.[4] The head tamada judges the winner of a round based on the toast's originality, formulation, and the approval it received from the table.[4] The winner is then given the right to speak second in the following round.[4] In informal settings, the basic structure of alternation is followed without the direct competition.[4]
To manage drinking order
A tamada can use the expression alaverdi to directly control the order of drinking.[2] By saying to someone, ალავერდი შენთანა ვარ alaverdi, shentana var ("I am alaverdi with you"), the tamada designates that person to deliver their toast and drink immediately after him.[2]
This is often done for specific reasons:
- When a toast is particularly special to an individual at the table, giving them the opportunity to speak first.[2] For example, if the toast is to a guest, the tamada might call on the person who invited the guest to be alaverdi so they can provide more context for the others.[2]
- To draw a person who has become withdrawn or stopped participating back into the group.[2] This action forces the person to speak and rejoin the activity, which is done for the "unity of the table".[2]
Social context
The practice of alaverdi is closely tied to concepts of masculinity in Georgian culture.[4] Table rhetoric is considered an important sign of masculinity, and men who cannot participate are considered "unmanly".[4] The power of words demonstrated during the competition is seen as a sign of masculinity.[4]