Lilt
/lɪlt/noun
To speak or sing in a lively, rhythmic, lightly swinging way; also a lively, rhythmic cadence.
Did you know?Lilt is believed to be an expressive word of uncertain origin, but its rise in English shows how speakers can literally invent sound-words to capture mood, rhythm, and enchantment.
Etymological Timeline
Early 17th Century
English
lilt
“To sing or speak in a light, tripping, lively way; to move with a lively spring.”
17th Century
English
lilt
“A lively song, tune, or manner of singing.”
Uncertain
Unknown
lilt
“Likely an expressive formation imitating a light, playful, swinging sound or motion.”
Modern English
English
lilt
“A cheerful, rhythmic cadence in speech or music; to utter in that style.”