Radix
/ˈreɪdɪks/noun
A root or base, especially the root of a number in mathematics or a foundational point in astrology.
Did you know?In traditional astrology, a radix was a natal chart—literally a person’s “root”—used to map planetary positions at birth.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*wrad-
“Root or branch; a reconstructed ancestral form connected with rooting and growth.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ῥίζα (rhiza)
“Root; the underground part of a plant and, figuratively, a source or origin.”
Classical Latin
Latin
radix
“Root, foundation, source, or origin.”
Late Latin
Latin
radix
“Root; in mathematical usage, the base or root from which a number is derived.”
Medieval Latin
Medieval Latin
radix
“A root or fundamental basis; also used in astrological writing for a natal chart.”
15th Century
English
radix
“A root or base, especially in mathematics and scholarly writing.”
Modern English
English
radix
“A mathematical base or root, and an astrological natal chart considered the foundation of a horoscope.”