noun
- plural of melisma; ornamental passages of several notes sung to one syllable of text
Usage: music
Examples
- The soprano’s melismata in the aria were breathtakingly complex.
- Gospel singers are known for their elaborate melismata.
- The composer wrote extensive melismata for the word ‘hallelujah’.
- Medieval chant often featured simple melismata on important words.
- Her melismata demonstrated exceptional vocal agility.
- The melismata in this piece require years of training to master.