lilt

[lɪlt]

lilt Definition

  • 1a characteristic rising and falling of the voice when speaking; a pleasant gentle accent
  • 2a light, happy, or cheerful manner of speaking or singing

Using lilt: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "lilt" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She spoke with a lilt in her voice that was very charming.

  • Example

    The song had a lilting melody that made everyone want to dance.

  • Example

    He read the poem with a lilt that brought out its musicality.

  • Example

    Her Irish lilt was unmistakable.

lilt Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with lilt

  • with a lilt in one's voice

    speaking in a way that rises and falls in pitch, often in a pleasant or musical manner

    Example

    She told the story with a lilt in her voice that made it all the more engaging.

  • lilting melody

    a musical tune or rhythm that is light, cheerful, and easy to dance to

    Example

    The lilting melody of the song made everyone want to get up and dance.

  • a distinctive accent or intonation associated with Irish English

    Example

    Her Irish lilt was so charming that everyone loved listening to her speak.

Origins of lilt

from Middle English 'lulten', meaning 'to sound an alarm'

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Summary: lilt in Brief

'Lilt' [lɪlt] refers to the rising and falling of the voice when speaking, often in a pleasant or musical manner. It can also refer to a light, happy, or cheerful manner of speaking or singing, as in 'The song had a lilting melody that made everyone want to dance.' 'Lilt' is often used in phrases like 'with a lilt in one's voice' and 'Irish lilt,' which describe distinctive accents or intonations.