The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Cheer \Cheer\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Cheered (ch[=e]rd); p. pr.
   & vb. n. cheering.]
   1. To cause to rejoice; to gladden; to make cheerful; --
      often with up. --Cowpe.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. To infuse life, courage, animation, or hope, into; to
      inspirit; to solace or comfort.
      [1913 Webster]

            The proud he tamed, the penitent he cheered.
                                                  --Dryden.
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   3. To salute or applaud with cheers; to urge on by cheers;
      as, to cheer hounds in a chase.
      [1913 Webster]

   To cheer ship, to salute a passing ship by cheers of
      sailors stationed in the rigging.

   Syn: To gladden; encourage; inspirit; comfort; console;
        enliven; refresh; exhilarate; animate; applaud.
        [1913 Webster]