zodiac
/ˈzoʊ.diˌæk/
Frequency: Zipf frequency 3.41 in modern English
Meaning
noun
The belt-like region of the celestial sphere, approximately eight degrees north and south of the ecliptic, which includes the apparent path of the sun, moon, and visible planets.
noun
The twelve equal divisions of the zodiacal region into signs or houses, each named for a prominent constellation in the region.
noun
The twelve equal divisions of the zodiacal region into signs or houses, each named for a prominent constellation in the region.
noun
The ecliptic: the belt-like region of the celestial sphere corresponding to the apparent path of the sun over the course of a year.
noun
Any of various astrological systems considered similar to the above.
noun
A inflatable boat.
noun
Alternative letter-case form of zodiac.
Example Sentences
- "Tremulous on the bladed graſs ſhone bright the pearly drops, like an aſſembly of ſparkling ſtars dancing on the plains of the zodiac; vocal was every bending ſpray, every reed was inſpired, each vvarbling throat ſeemed to emulate the melodious voice of the bird of a thouſand ſongs."
- "He is so pictured in the ancient Denderah Zodiac, where we see a man coming forth pointing to the three bright stars (Rigel, Bellatrix, and Betelguez) as his."
- "Discussing both Chinese and Western zodiacs might be a prewriting activity."
- "So the Dendera Zodiac seems to be a complete copy of the Mesopotamian zodiac."
Etymology
Origin
Word Breakdown
- Root: *gʷeyh₃-, zodiak, zodiaque, zōdiacus, ζῳδιακός κύκλος
Regional Pronunciation
- American English: /ˈzoʊ.diˌæk/
- British English: /ˈzəʊ.dɪˌæk/
Usage
Subject
Wiktionary places this term in People.