# ornamentation

/ˌɔɹnəmɛnˈteɪʃən/ (US) · /ˌɔːnəmˈɛntˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ornamentation
Updated: 2026-05-27

## Definition

the extra notes or decorations added to a piece of music to make it sound more beautiful or interesting. It is like the extra details a singer or musician adds to a simple melody.

For teachers: the addition of decorative notes or embellishments to a musical line. Often refers to the specific techniques used by a performer to enhance the expressiveness of a melody.

## Examples

- The singer added some beautiful ornamentation to the final verse.
- In Baroque music, ornamentation was expected to be performed by the musician rather than written into the score by the composer.
- The pianist's intricate ornamentation transformed the simple folk melody into a complex, shimmering display of technical mastery that captivated the audience.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.