int. (sb.). A vocal utterance forming a musical phrase (usually ascending) expressive of gaiety or joy; also, a cadence or flourish on a horn or similar instrument.
1823. Scott, Quentin D., ix. Lay on the dogs, in the name of the holy St. Hubert!—Ha! ha! tra-la-la-lira-la!
1835. T. Mitchell, Aristoph., Acharn., 1099, note. If the accent is thrown on the last syllable of this word [τήνελλα], it will approach very closely to modern imitative words of a similar, kind: Tirala! Tirala! Tralalla! Tralalla!
1886. Hissey, On Box Seat, 40. The cheery tra-la-la of the guard’s horn.
