Astrology Glossary: Key Terms Explained

The zodiac sign that was rising on the eastern horizon at the exact moment of your birth. It shapes first impressions and outward personality.

A map of where all the planets were positioned at your exact time and place of birth, forming the foundation of personal astrology.

The transitional period between two zodiac signs, when the sun is close to crossing from one sign into the next.

One of four groups (Fire, Earth, Air, Water) that zodiac signs are divided into, based on shared behavioral qualities.

Twelve divisions of the birth chart, each governing a different area of life, such as career, relationships, or home.

The zodiac sign the Moon occupied at your birth, associated with emotional instincts and inner life.

Relating to the moment of birth; used to describe a person's original, unique birth chart.

A 180-degree relationship between two zodiac signs or planets, often associated with tension or complementary balance.

One of three categories — Cardinal, Fixed, or Mutable — describing how a sign initiates, sustains, or adapts to change.

The apparent backward motion of a planet as viewed from Earth, often associated with periods of reflection or disruption in that planet's themes.

The planet believed to govern a particular zodiac sign's core energy and characteristics.

Your main zodiac sign, based on the sun's position at your birth — what most people mean when they say 'my sign.'

The practice of comparing two people's birth charts to assess relationship compatibility.

The current, ongoing movement of a planet through the zodiac, used to interpret horoscopes and forecast trends.

The 360-degree circle divided into 12 equal 30-degree segments, one for each zodiac sign.