twelve signs of the zodiac; ecliptic divisions
Meanings
3 senses · 7 examplesnoun
the twelve signs of the zodiac; divisions of the ecliptic into twelve equal parts
formalA fundamental concept in historical Western and Chinese astrology, though modern astronomical constellations no longer align precisely with these divisions due to the precession of the equinoxes.
In astrology, the twelve signs of the zodiac are used to interpret personality and fate.
Aries is the first sign of the zodiac.
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His zodiac sign is Gemini, which is one of the twelve signs.
noun
the twelve zodiacal constellations
formalHistorically, each 'house' corresponded to a constellation along the ecliptic. The names and order (from the vernal equinox) are: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.
This ancient star chart depicts the complete twelve zodiacal constellations.
Scorpio is known for its mystery among the twelve zodiac signs.
noun
the astronomical concept where the modern zodiac constellations no longer align with the traditional twelve houses
formalRefers to the discrepancy caused by axial precession, meaning the astrological signs are fixed to seasons, while the astronomical constellations have shifted over millennia. Important for distinguishing between astrology and modern astronomy.
Astronomers point out that the signs of the zodiac are now offset by about one constellation from their actual astronomical positions.
Understanding the precession of the equinoxes is key to grasping the historical shifts in the zodiac.