Zodiac
/ˈzoʊ.di.æk/noun
A circle of twelve 30° divisions of celestial longitude that are centered upon the ecliptic.
Did you know?In ancient astrology, the Zodiac was believed to hold divine influence over human fate, linking our lives to the movements of the stars.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*dʰéǵʰōm
“the earth or ground, metaphorically a foundation for celestial mapping.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ζῷον (zōion)
“animal, a being; used in the context of astrological symbols.”
Hellenistic Greek
Greek
ζωδιακός (zodiakos)
“pertaining to the animals, relating to the circle of animals (constellations).”
Old French
Old French
zodiac
“the zodiac, circle of twelve signs used in astrology.”
Late Middle English
English
zodiac
“the twelve signs of the zodiac, a representation of celestial paths.”
Modern English
English
zodiac
“the celestial belt divided into twelve signs used in astrology.”
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