What does lilt mean?
Lilt names a light, buoyant rhythm, especially one heard in a voice, song, or poem. Used as a noun, it can also refer to the springy manner of a person walking or dancing. As a verb, to lilt means to move with an easy, rhythmic grace or to speak or sing with a pleasing melodic cadence. The word is closely associated with musicality and controlled lightness rather than mere speed: a lilt suggests grace, charm, and an infectious sense of fun. It is therefore common in literary description, particularly when a singer’s rising phrase, a child’s step, or a lively verse seems to carry the performance forward. Although lilt is usually positive, the quality can be used critically when it suggests affected artifice or superficial charm. In everyday use, the word is more evocative and ornamental than plain speech, making it especially useful for describing the character of sound and movement.
A light, buoyant, rhythmic movement or manner of moving; also, a pleasing, often rising cadence in the voice or in song.
"There was a lilt in the verses that made the melody easy to remember."
As a noun, lilt may describe either movement or vocal and musical cadence.
To move with a light, rhythmic step or sway; to speak or sing with a lively, melodious cadence.
"The singer began to lilt the opening line as the orchestra entered."
The verb is evocative and typically describes graceful or playful movement, speech, or song.
The plural is uncommon; lilt is usually used in the singular or without an article.
"She can imitate several different lilts in her reading voice."
Lilt is a rhythm you can hear with your ears and see with your eyes.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lilt come from?
Lilt is attested from the 16th century, initially in the sense of moving lightly or briskly. Its use for a distinctive vocal or musical cadence developed by the 17th century. The word’s ultimate etymology remains uncertain, so it cannot confidently be assigned a definite language ancestry.
Related word forms
How lilt is actually used
The word is especially associated with voice, music, verse, and graceful movement. It is generally literary and approving, suggesting ease, charm, playfulness, and sometimes youthfulness.
Easily confused with lilt
A lull soothes or settles someone, often toward sleep, whereas a lilt is a light, pleasing rhythm in movement, speech, or song.