Definition of: vignette

(vin·yet′) noun
1. Originally, a running ornament of leaves and tendrils, as in Gothic architecture.
2. A decorative or illustrative design placed on or before the title page of a book, at the end or beginning of a chapter, etc.; also, in medieval manuscript, an ornamented capital letter.
3. An engraving, photograph, or the like, having a background that shades off gradually.
4. A word–picture which delineates something subtly and delicately.
—v.t. ·gnet·ted, ·gnet·ting
1. To make with a gradually shaded background or border, as a photograph.
2. To ornament with vignettes. [<F, dim. of vigne a vine]