Buoyant cadences are musical phrases that have a light, uplifting sound. They are often used to create a sense of joy and optimism in a piece of music. The term 'buoyant cadences' is derived from the Latin word 'buoyare, ' which means 'to float.' Lilts are a type of buoyant cadence, characterized by a gentle, swaying rhythm. They are often used to create a feeling of contentment or relaxation.