Astrology Glossary
Clear and responsible explanations of the essential concepts used in birth charts, transits and modern astrology.
Ascendant
The sign rising on the eastern horizon; it describes approach, presentation and beginnings.
ASTROLOGY TERMMidheaven
The chart angle linked with career direction and public visibility.
ASTROLOGY TERMHouse
One of twelve sectors describing a field of lived experience.
ASTROLOGY TERMAspect
The angular relationship and symbolic interaction between planets.
ASTROLOGY TERMOrb
The accepted distance from an aspect’s exact degree.
ASTROLOGY TERMConjunction
Two planets occupying the same area and concentrating their symbolism.
ASTROLOGY TERMOpposition
A 180-degree aspect asking for balance and awareness between two poles.
ASTROLOGY TERMSquare
A dynamic 90-degree aspect associated with friction and growth.
ASTROLOGY TERMTrine
A 120-degree aspect linked with ease and natural flow.
ASTROLOGY TERMSextile
A 60-degree aspect offering opportunity and cooperation.
ASTROLOGY TERMTransit
Temporary relationships between current planets and the natal chart.
ASTROLOGY TERMRetrograde
The apparent backward motion of a planet as seen from Earth.
ASTROLOGY TERMProgression
A forecasting technique that advances the natal chart symbolically through time.
ASTROLOGY TERMSolar Return
A chart cast for the Sun’s yearly return to its natal degree.
ASTROLOGY TERMLunar Return
A chart for the Moon’s monthly return to its natal degree.
ASTROLOGY TERMEphemeris
A table of planetary positions by date and time.
ASTROLOGY TERMRuler
The planet traditionally associated with a sign or house.
ASTROLOGY TERMExaltation
A sign where a planet is traditionally considered especially supported.
ASTROLOGY TERMDetriment
A planet placed opposite the sign it rules.
ASTROLOGY TERMFall
A planet placed opposite its sign of exaltation.
ASTROLOGY TERMElement
The four modes of expression: fire, earth, air and water.
ASTROLOGY TERMModality
The three modes of action: cardinal, fixed and mutable.
ASTROLOGY TERMDeclination
Angular distance north or south of the celestial equator.
ASTROLOGY TERMParallel
A relationship between two planets at similar declination.
ASTROLOGY TERMLunar Nodes
The north and south intersections of the Moon’s orbit with the ecliptic.