One of these common ornamentation techniques involves the use of what is known as a mordent - a single, rapid alternation from a primary note in the melodic line to a neighboring tone a half or whole tone above or below it.
Mordents first came into vogue during the Baroque period of Western classical music (early 1600´'s to mid 1700's). As their interpretations have evolved over time, their usage continues across a broad spectrum of musical styles and cultures.