What musical term refers to notes that should be played crisply and distinkly?

The musical term that refers to notes that should be played crisply and distinctly is "staccato". Staccato is an Italian musical term that means "detached" or "separated". It is notated by a dot placed above or below the note head. Staccato notes are played by shortening the duration of the note by about half of its normal value. This creates a crisp and distinct sound.