Shloka/ Shlok/ Shlokam in sanskrit means a verse, hymn in praise of or a proverb. They are usually two lined verses or a collection of such individual verses are then called as stotrams.
Sometimes a recital concludes with a sloka (prayer). The sanchari-s in a sloka should be brief. This is an item without tala and provides felief after the earlier items. It also gives the musicians a chance to use their creativity.
Shlokam form a part of Hindu prayers.