Melisma
/məˈlɪzmə/noun
A musical phrase or passage consisting of multiple notes sung to a single syllable.
Did you know?In ancient Greece, melisma was often used in sacred rituals to invoke the divine, transforming simple syllables into enchanting spells.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
μελίσματος (melismatos)
“A musical embellishment or ornamentation.”
Late Latin
Latin
melisma
“A term borrowed from Greek, referring to a melodic phrase.”
Medieval Latin
Latin
melisma
“A term used in early music to describe elaborate vocal passages.”
14th Century
Middle English
melisma
“Adopted into English from Latin, retaining the meaning of a melodic embellishment.”
Modern English
English
melisma
“Now refers broadly to any similar vocal technique in music.”
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