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lilt

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /lɪlt/

KK: /lɪlt/

intransitive verb
Definition

To move or speak in a cheerful and lively way, often with a rhythmic quality.


Example

The children began to lilt as they danced around the garden.


Tense Forms

Past: lilted

Past Participle: lilted


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear her sing at the concert last night?
Sloth B
Yes! She really made the crowd lilt with her voice.
Sloth A
I loved how the music made everyone feel so light and happy.
Sloth B
Exactly! It was like we were all floating together.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bounce
sway
sing
Antonyms
stumble
drag
mumble
noun
Definition

A cheerful and lively way of speaking or singing, where the voice has a pleasant rise and fall in pitch.


Example

The singer's lilt made the song sound joyful and uplifting.


Conversation
Sloth A
I love how your voice has a lovely lilt when you sing.
Sloth B
Thanks! I've always enjoyed singing in a light and cheerful way.
Sloth A
It really makes the song feel more joyful, doesn't it?
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To express something in a cheerful and rhythmic way, often through singing or speaking.


Example

She began to lilt a happy tune as she worked in the garden.


Tense Forms

Past: lilted

Past Participle: lilted


Conversation
Sloth A
I love how you lilt when you sing; it makes everything sound so cheerful.
Sloth B
Thanks! I find it really helps to lift the mood around us.
Sloth A
You should teach me how to lilt like that!
Sloth B
Root Explanation

The word 'lilt' originates from Middle English 'liltan', meaning to sing or chant. It is related to the Old Norse 'lilta', meaning to sing or to play music. The word describes a cheerful or lively manner of singing or speaking.

Memory Tip

Imagine a joyful tune or a lively song — that's what 'lilt' captures, as it means to sing or speak in a cheerful way.

Visually Confused Words
lit
liplet
lilith
Is this page helpful?
Absolutely! A good lilt can brighten anyone's day.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
melody
tune
cadence
Antonyms
dissonance
silence
monotone
Sure, it’s all about finding the right rhythm and having fun with it.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
chant
sing
play
Antonyms
mumble
grumble
speak