horoscope

noun

horo·​scope ˈhȯr-ə-ˌskōp How to pronounce horoscope (audio)
ˈhär-
1
: a diagram of the relative positions of planets and signs of the zodiac at a specific time (as at one's birth) for use by astrologers in inferring individual character and personality traits and in foretelling events of a person's life
2
: an astrological forecast

Examples of horoscope in a Sentence

She checked the newspaper for her horoscope.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This horoscope was generated automatically using information from Sanctuary. Usa Today, USA Today, 28 Mar. 2026 Your April 2026 horoscope is here! Kirah Tabourn, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Mar. 2026 There are horoscopes at the back of virtually every women’s magazine, and lots of women follow them, letting these fortunes dictate their joys and sorrows. Literary Hub, 23 Mar. 2026 The symbolism in their designs has expanded beyond the horoscope and include Ayatul Kursi (The Throne Verse from the Quran), a Virgin Mary ring, pomegranate motifs for prosperity, Hamsa hands for protection, the evil eye to ward off negativity, and the elephant as a symbol of good fortune. Milena Lazazzera, CNN Money, 20 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for horoscope

Word History

Etymology

Middle English horoscopum, from Latin horoscopus, from Greek hōroskopos, from hōra + skopos watcher; akin to Greek skopein to look at — more at spy

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of horoscope was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Horoscope.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/horoscope. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

horoscope

noun
horo·​scope ˈhȯr-ə-ˌskōp How to pronounce horoscope (audio)
ˈhär-
1
: a diagram of the positions of planets and signs of the zodiac used by astrologers to foretell events of a person's life
2
: an astrological forecast
Etymology

Middle English horoscopum "horoscope," from Latin horoscopus (same meaning), from Greek hōroskopos, literally, "hour watcher," from hōra "hour" and skopos "watcher" — related to bishop, episcopal, scope see Word History at bishop

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