Melisma
Pronunciation : Me*lis"ma
Part of Speech : n.;
Etymology : [NL., fr. Gr. (Mus.) (a) A piece of melody; a song or tune, -- as opposed to recitative or musical declamation. (b) A grace or embellishment.
Definition :
pl. Melismata.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913