astrology

noun

as·​trol·​o·​gy ə-ˈsträ-lə-jē 

1

: the divination of the supposed influences of the stars and planets on human affairs and terrestrial events by their positions and aspects

2

archaic : astronomy

astrological

ˌa-strə-ˈlä-ji-kəl 

adjective

astrologically

ˌa-strə-ˈlä-ji-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Did you know?

The Difference Between Astronomy and Astrology

Some may find it easy to confuse astronomy and astrology. At one time, these two words actually were synonymous (that is, astronomy once meant what astrology means today), but they have since moved apart from each other. In current use, astronomy is concerned with “the study of objects and matter outside the earth's atmosphere,” while astrology is the purported divination of how stars and planets influence our lives. Put bluntly, astronomy is a science, and astrology is not.

Examples of astrology in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

After the episode aired on July 17, the TikToker (and an avid astrology believer) tells PEOPLE that fans were quick to look skyward to reason why the duo had such a natural rapport. —Zoey Lyttle, People.com, 4 Nov. 2024

Mars signifies rulership in ancient astrology, while Pluto represents the life cycle and rebirth. —Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 23 Oct. 2024

And for inner work, there are astrology readings and sound baths, which will also play a part in the Inn’s forthcoming New Year’s Eve ceremonies. —Laurie Werner, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024

How have your own personal experiences affirmed your belief in astrology? —Roya Backlund, StyleCaster, 16 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English astrologie "study of celestial bodies, prediction by observing the configuration of celestial bodies," borrowed from Middle French & Latin; Middle French astrologie, borrowed from Latin astrologia "study of celestial bodies," borrowed from Greek astrología, from astro- astro- + -logia -logy

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

astrology

noun

as·​trol·​o·​gy ə-ˈsträl-ə-jē 

: the study of the supposed influences of the stars on human affairs by their positions in relation to each other

astrologer

-jər

noun

astrological

ˌas-trə-ˈläj-i-kəl 

adjective

astrologically

-k(ə-)lē 

adverb