zodiac

noun

zo·​di·​ac ˈzō-dē-ˌak 

1

a

: an imaginary band in the heavens centered on the ecliptic that encompasses the apparent paths of all the planets and is divided into 12 constellations or signs each taken for astrological purposes to extend 30 degrees of longitude

b

: a figure representing the signs of the zodiac and their symbols

2

: a cyclic course

a zodiac of feasts and fasts

—R. W. Emerson

zodiacal

zō-ˈdī-ə-kəl 

zə-

adjective

Synonyms

• circle
• cycle
• merry-go-round
• round
• wheel

Examples of zodiac in a Sentence

a political candidate dealing with the never-ending zodiac of rubber-chicken dinners and meet and greets

Recent Examples on the Web

Astrologer Valerie Mesa shares the best crystals to support this zodiac sign on their journey of self-discovery Comments As a Fixed Air sign, Aquarius is known for its unwavering focus on the future and its ability to see the bigger picture. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 21 Jan. 2025

The Chinese zodiac operates on a 12-year cycle of animals combined with one of five elements—wood, fire, Earth, metal, or water—creating a unique 60-year cycle. —Jamie Carter, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025

This British brand’s collection honors wisdom, elegance, adaptability and intelligence, which are attributed to the snake in the Chinese zodiac. —Ty Gaskins, WWD, 10 Jan. 2025

Read on for what Mercury in Capricorn means for your zodiac sign. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 8 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French zodias, zodiac, borrowed from Latin zōdiacus, adjective (in the combinations circulus/orbis zōdiacus "zodiac"), borrowed from Greek zōidiakós "zodiac" (originally modifying kýklos "circle"), from zṓidion "painted or carved figure, sign of the zodiac" (from zôion "animal, figure, image" + -idion, diminutive suffix) + -akos, variant of -ikos -ic entry 1 after a vowel — more at zoo-

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing zodiac

• the zodiac

Kids Definition

zodiac

noun

zo·​di·​ac ˈzōd-ē-ˌak 

1

: an imaginary belt in the heavens that includes the apparent paths of most of the planets and is divided into 12 star groups or signs

2

: a figure showing the signs of the zodiac

zodiacal

zō-ˈdī-ə-kəl 

adjective

Etymology

Middle English zodiac "zodiac," from Latin zodiacus (same meaning), derived from Greek zōidion "carved or painted figure, sign of the zodiac," from zōion "living being, animal, figure"