Origin and Meaning of Vignette

Meaning & Origin

A small illustrated piece of a text; a short descriptive literary sketch.

Origin: French - Derived from the French word 'vignette', which originally means 'little vine' and refers to a decorative design usually placed at the beginning or end of a book chapter.

Interesting Facts

  • The term 'vignette' was initially used in the context of art and literature to describe a short scene or sketch that captures a particular moment.
  • In literature, vignettes are often used in various cultures to tell brief, powerful stories that evoke emotions or themes.
  • Notable authors such as Alice Walker and Sandra Cisneros have employed vignettes in their works to highlight cultural experiences and personal narratives.
  • The name Vignette is quite rare as a personal name but has garnered some attention in creative and literary circles.
  • The name is sometimes associated with creativity and artistic expression, making it appealing as a modern name for those in the arts.