zodiac
Definitions
The band of the sky containing the paths of the sun, moon, and planets, divided into twelve constellations (signs)
黄道带（天空中太阳、月亮和行星运行所经的区域，分为十二星座）
The twelve astrological signs collectively; a diagram of these signs
（统称）十二星座；十二宫图
Root Breakdown
Native EnglishFrom Greek zōidiakos (kyklos) = 'circle of little animals.' The zo- is the same animal root as in zoo. Ancient astronomers saw most of the twelve constellations along the sun's path as creatures — Ram, Bull, Crab, Lion, Scorpion, Fish — so the band of sky was named after its animals.
Root zoo still carries 9 more wordsWhy It Means This
The hidden gem of the zoo family. Zodiac literally means 'the animal circle,' and most signs really are creatures. But the metaphor frayed at the edges: Libra is a pair of scales, Gemini is twins, and Aquarius is a water-bearer — none of them animals. The name stuck anyway, a 2,000-year-old reminder of when humans first read the night sky as a menagerie.
Common Collocations
- 1.signs of the zodiac黄道星座
- 2.the Chinese zodiac十二生肖
- 3.a zodiac sign一个星座
- 4.the wheel of the zodiac黄道之轮
Example Sentences
- 1.
Each sign of the zodiac is linked to a different personality type.
- 2.
Leo and Scorpio are two of the most striking animal symbols in the zodiac.
- 3.
The temple ceiling was painted with the twelve signs of the zodiac.