GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Vignette , n. [F. vignette, fr. vigne a vine. See Vine, and cf. Vinette.]
   (Arch.) A running ornament consisting of leaves and tendrils, used in Gothic architecture.
   1913 Webster
   A decorative design, originally representing vine branches or tendrils, at the head of a chapter, of a manuscript or printed book, or in a similar position; hence, by extension, any small picture in a book; hence, also, as such pictures are often without a definite bounding line, any picture, as an engraving, a photograph, or the like, which vanishes gradually at the edge.
   1913 Webster
   A picture, illustration, or depiction in words, esp. one of a small or dainty kind.
   Webster 1913 Suppl.
         
       

2.       
   Vignette, v. t. To make, as an engraving or a photograph, with a border or edge insensibly fading away.
   1913 Webster