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 mediæval 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.

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

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

• Smaller than normal.
        I find miniature dogs annoying.
  
• A musical composition which is short in duration.