Miniature \Min"i*a*ture\ (?; 277), n. [It. miniatura, fr. L. miniare. See Miniate, v.,Minium.]

1. Originally, a painting in colors such as those in medi[ae]val manuscripts; in modern times, any very small painting, especially a portrait.

2. Greatly diminished size or form; reduced scale.

3. Lettering in red; rubric distinction. [Obs.]

4. A particular feature or trait. [Obs.]

--Massinger.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
 

Miniature \Min"i*a*ture\, a. Being on a small; much reduced from the reality; as, a miniature copy.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
 

Miniature \Min"i*a*ture\, v. t. To represent or depict in a small compass, or on a small scale.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)