September 20, 2026
Melisma
nounDefinition
A group of notes sung on one syllable of text; an ornamental vocal flourish. It is a defining feature of gospel, jazz, and traditional Arabic and South Asian singing.
Example Sentence
“Her astonishing melisma on the final chorus brought the entire audience to their feet.”
Etymology
From Greek melisma (song), from melos (song, melody).
Scrabble Score
M3E1L1I1S1M3A1
MELISMA scores 11 points in Scrabble.
Synonyms & Related Words
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