Meaning of the word mordent in English

What does mordent mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

mordent

US /ˈmɔːr.dənt/
UK /ˈmɔː.dənt/
"mordent" picture

Noun

a musical ornament indicating that the main note is to be played, followed by the note below (inverted mordent) or above (mordent) and then the main note again.

Example:
The pianist added a delicate mordent to the melody.
Classical music often features various ornaments like the mordent.

Adjective

having or showing a sharp or critical quality; biting.

Example:
His mordent wit often caught people off guard.
She delivered a mordent critique of the new policy.