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miniature

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The definition of a miniature is a copy of something that is much smaller than the original.

(noun)

An example of a miniature is a tiny silver replica of a horse.

Miniature is defined as much smaller in scale or size.

(adjective)

An example of miniature used as an adjective is the phrase "miniature golf" which means a golf course that is much smaller than a regular one.

See miniature in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

a small painting or illuminated letter, as in a medieval manuscript
1. a very small painting, esp. a portrait, done on ivory, vellum, etc.
2. the art of making such paintings
a copy or model on a very small scale

Origin: It miniatura, rubrication, illumination of manuscripts < ML < pp. of L miniare, to paint red < minium, red lead (see minium): sense infl. by L minutus, minute

adjective

on or done on a very small scale; diminutive; minute

See miniature in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

a. A copy or model that represents or reproduces something in a greatly reduced size.
b. Something small of its class.
a. A small painting executed with great detail, often on a surface such as ivory or vellum.
b. A small portrait, picture, or decorative letter on an illuminated manuscript.
c. The art of painting miniatures.

adjective

Being on a small or greatly reduced scale. See Synonyms at small.

Origin:

Origin: Italian miniatura, illumination of manuscripts, small painting

Origin: , from miniare, to illuminate

Origin: , from Latin miniāre, to color red

Origin: , from minium, red lead

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