Zodiac Signs - Characteristics and Their Traits
Some of us strongly believe in zodiac signs, while others are more skeptical. However, the truth remains that the traits associated with them often resonate with almost everyone.
In this article, you will find:
- What Are Zodiac Signs?
- Types of Zodiac Signs
- The Ascendant
- History of Zodiac Signs
- Characteristics of Zodiac Signs
1. What Are Zodiac Signs?
The zodiac, also called the celestial belt or zodiacal circle, is an imaginary band in the sky that aligns with the Earth’s rotational axis. Over 4,000 years ago, astrologers divided this band into 12 equal rectangular sections, each 30 degrees in length, naming them after animal constellations. These signs were named based on 12 of the 13 constellations they overlapped with historically. Within this celestial band, all visible planets in our solar system move, including the later-discovered Uranus, Neptune, and the dwarf planet Pluto, though Pluto may appear in other parts of the sky.
Each zodiac sign, corresponding to specific dates and times, is determined by the Sun’s position at that precise moment. The zodiac begins with the spring equinox, marked by the sign Aries. Due to the Earth’s axial movement, zodiac signs have shifted by approximately one constellation from their historical positions. Currently, the spring equinox lies in Pisces and will shift to Aquarius in about 100 years.
Zodiac Belt - Illustration. Source: Freepik.com
2. Types of Zodiac Signs
Tropical Zodiac: This consists of 12 zodiac signs starting at the spring equinox, opening with Aries. These signs include: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces. In ancient Greece, these signs partially overlapped with constellations of the same names.
Sidereal Zodiac: This features 12 constellations with the same names as the zodiac signs. Due to axial precession, it shifts by one constellation approximately every 2,150 years and will return to its original position in about 25,800 years.
Zodiac signs are also classified by polarity into masculine and feminine, or by elements as earth, water, air, and fire. Additionally, they are divided into qualities: cardinal, fixed, and mutable. Combining these elements forms the zodiac signs as we know them today. Even the numbers 7 and 10 are associated with the zodiac, with 7 rooted in older traditions and 10 in modern planetary astrology.
Classification by Masculine/Feminine Energies:
| Feminine Signs | Masculine Signs |
| Taurus | Aries |
| Cancer | Gemini |
| Virgo | Leo |
| Scorpio | Libra |
| Capricorn | Sagittarius |
| Pisces | Aquarius |
Classification by Elements:
| Earth | Water | Air | Fire |
| Taurus | Cancer | Libra | Leo |
| Virgo | Pisces | Aquarius | Aries |
| Capricorn | Scorpio | Gemini | Sagittarius |
By analyzing the classification of zodiac signs and the ruling planets, it’s possible to deduce the traits associated with each sign. In astrology, three elements play a key role in character traits: the ascendant (rising sign), the Sun, and the Moon. These elements may also be present in other zodiac signs, which explains why you might relate to descriptions of multiple signs.
Source: Pinterest.com
3. What Is the Ascendant?
The ascendant, in simple terms, is how others perceive us when we, for instance, enter a room. It reflects our aura, charisma, and the “initial first impression.” It is the sign that was rising on the horizon at the moment of our birth.
In astrology, the ascendant plays a significant role and is often referred to as a "public mask." While the Sun sign represents who we are at our core, the ascendant is our “mask” that we show to the world.
Zodiac Signs - Illustration. Source: Freepik.com
To calculate your rising sign, you need to know your exact time and place of birth. Even small deviations can lead to incorrect results. Let’s illustrate the ascendant with an example. If you know someone with a Leo Sun sign, you might expect them to be bold and confident. However, they might actually be sensitive, shy, or introverted. The answer lies in their ascendant. For example, if you are a Leo with Pisces rising, you inherently possess Leo traits, but you project qualities associated with Pisces—sensitivity and a more reserved nature.
Therefore, the ascendant is just as important as the Sun sign. It shapes our personality and reveals how we appear to others. The ascendant strongly influences behavior and actions, helping us understand how people react to us.
To summarize, the ascendant reflects how a person projects themselves outwardly, their demeanor, aspirations, and even physical appearance. The Sun's position in a sign reveals their inner essence, while the Moon’s position unveils emotional tendencies and moods.
4. History of Zodiac Signs
The zodiac has ancient origins, and the number of signs evolved based on various calendars used for agricultural purposes. In ancient Greece, the division of the zodiac was linked to the recognition of prevailing winds.
Astrology, as we know it today, emerged in Mesopotamia around the 5th century BCE. It was during this period that the first zodiac system with twelve signs was developed. This division was later adopted and refined by the Egyptians and Greeks. Within decades, this "trend" spread to Persia, Asia Minor, and India. Based on the Greco-Egyptian branch of astrology, the Chaldean planetary order was established, which was eventually replaced in the 16th century by the Copernican model.
At that time, a new scientific field, astronomy, emerged, and in the 20th century, astrology became distinct from it. From its origins in Mesopotamia, Western astrology evolved, incorporating elements of Arabic influence. Today, it is prevalent in Europe and America. The Greek lineage of astrology also developed into a more conservative form of Indian astrology, which differs from Western astrology by one zodiac sign.
Chinese astrology, on the other hand, is vastly different, focusing on an entirely distinct zodiac. The Chinese horoscope is much more intricate, involving a lunar calendar that dates back thousands of years. Chinese astrology is used not only to define a person’s characteristics but also to predict their luck or future outcomes.
Chinese Zodiac - Illustration. Source: Pinterest.com
The animals in the Chinese horoscope are derived from ancient Chinese myths and legends. It is said that Buddha held a race among animals, and the first twelve to cross the raging river and reach the finish line earned a place in the Chinese calendar. The clever rat won by riding on the swift ox and jumping off just before the finish line. The deceived ox took second place. The snake, like the rat, used trickery by hiding in the horse’s tail and emerging just before the finish line to overtake the swift horse. Despite being an excellent swimmer, the dog finished second-to-last, as it decided to enjoy a bath in the river. The pig came last, having stopped to eat during the race. The other animals ranked based on their skills and mutual cooperation.
The first horoscopes were created by Babylonian priests, who divided the Sun’s annual journey into twelve constellations. The oldest known horoscope, dated to 410 BCE, belongs to the son of the Babylonian king, Šuma Usa.
In our geographical regions, we primarily recognize solar zodiac signs, which refer to the sign in which the Sun was located at a person’s birth.
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Dates for Sun’s Position in Each Zodiac Sign:
- March 21 - April 19 Aries
- April 20 - May 20 Taurus
- May 21 - June 21 Gemini
- June 22 - July 22 Cancer
- July 23 - August 22 Leo
- August 23 - September 22 Virgo
- September 23 - October 23 Libra
- October 24 - November 21 Scorpio
- November 22 - December 21 Sagittarius
- December 22 - January 19 Capricorn
- January 20 - February 18 Aquarius
- February 19 - March 20 Pisces
Zodiac Signs with Their Constellations - Illustration. Source: Freepik.com
5. Characteristics of Zodiac Signs
Libra (September 23 - October 23)
Libra (September 23 - October 23, Latin: Libra) is a sign often misunderstood due to its outward complexity. However, Libras are inherently kind, sincere, and protective. To explore more about Libra, we recommend reading our detailed article on Libra traits.
Typical traits of Libra, the seventh zodiac sign:
- Masculine sign
- Dominant, with a desire to lead and make decisions
- Intellectual, sociable, and lighthearted
- Sanguine temperament
- Ambitious and goal-oriented
- Ruling planet: Venus
- An appreciation for beauty, love, and harmony
- Inclination towards contentment and sometimes superficiality
Scorpio (October 24 - November 21)
Scorpio (October 24 - November 21, Latin: Scorpius) is the eighth zodiac sign and often the most misunderstood due to its intensity, determination, and passion. For more insights into Scorpio, we recommend reading our comprehensive article on Scorpio traits.
Key characteristics of Scorpio individuals:
- Feminine sign
- Good listeners
- Emotional and perceptive
- Phlegmatic temperament
- Resilient, stable, and determined
- Stubborn and persistent
- Ruling planets: Mars and Pluto
- Passion, strength, and sharpness
- Tendency towards intensity and anger
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Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21, Latin: Sagittarius), the final fire sign of the zodiac, stands out for its individuality, uniqueness, and optimism. For more details on Sagittarius, we recommend reading our in-depth article on Sagittarius traits.
Typical traits of Sagittarius, the ninth zodiac sign:
- Masculine sign
- Dominant
- Enthusiastic, active, and energetic
- Choleric temperament
- Optimistic and adaptable
- Ruling planet: Jupiter
- Faith, wisdom, and tendency to exaggerate
Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)
Capricorns (December 22 - January 19, Latin: Capricornus) are often said to have a dual nature—pragmatic and composed on one hand, while capable of inventing problems on the other. To dive deeper into Capricorn, we recommend reading our comprehensive article on Capricorn traits.
Key characteristics of Capricorn individuals:
- Feminine sign
- Great at receiving and listening
- Practical and ambitious
- Melancholic temperament
- Ruling planet: Saturn
- Seriousness, responsibility, perseverance, and introversion
Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)
Although often mistaken for a water sign, Aquarius (January 20 - February 18, Latin: Aquarius) belongs to the air signs. Known for its friendly nature, empathy, and originality, Aquarius also has its challenges. For more information on Aquarius, we recommend reading our detailed article on Aquarius traits.
Typical traits of Aquarius, the eleventh zodiac sign:
- Masculine sign
- Dominant
- Intellectual, social, and lighthearted
- Sanguine temperament
- Resilient and steadfast
- Ruling planets: Saturn and Uranus
- Originality, independence, and revolutionary thinking
Pisces (February 19 - March 20)
Pisces (February 19 - March 20, Latin: Pisces), the final sign of the zodiac, is symbolized by two fish swimming in opposite directions, representing the tension between fantasy and reality. To explore more about Pisces, we recommend reading our comprehensive article on Pisces traits.
Key characteristics of Pisces individuals:
- Feminine sign
- Good listeners and receptive
- Emotional, intuitive, and sensitive
- Phlegmatic temperament
- Versatile and imaginative
- Ruling planets: Jupiter and Neptune
- Compassion, creativity, and dreaminess
- Tendency towards chaos or losing identity
Astrology has come a long way, evolving and adapting through the ages. From being intertwined with astronomy to facing criticism, it has remained a fascinating field of study. In the 20th century, it gained popularity with the general public, transcending its earlier association with philosophers and scholars. Whether or not we find ourselves in the traits of our zodiac sign, we all remain connected to the universe, a mystery that continues to intrigue us.
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Aries (March 21 - April 19)
Aries (March 21 - April 19, Latin: Aries) loves to be number one, so it's no surprise that this fearless sign is the first in the zodiac. If you'd like to learn more about the Aries sign, we recommend reading our comprehensive article focused on Aries traits.
Typical traits of Aries, the first zodiac sign:
- Masculine sign
- Dominant
- Loves to lead and set rules
- Fire element
- Energetic, vital, and active
- Ambitious and goal-oriented
- Ruling planet: Mars
- Bravery, determination, ability to stand out, aggression
- Appears confident, acts enthusiastically, and dives into things with passion
Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
Taurus (April 20 - May 20, Latin: Taurus) is synonymous with strength, perseverance, and power. These traits perfectly embody this grounded sign. If you'd like to learn more about Taurus, we recommend reading our in-depth article focused on Taurus traits.
Key characteristics of a Taurus individual:
- Feminine sign
- Great at listening and receiving
- Practical
- Melancholic temperament
- Resilient, stable, determined
- Stubborn and unwavering
- Ruling planet: Venus
- Enjoys comfort, beauty, and pleasure
- Can lean towards indulgence or laziness
- Has a knack for accumulating and preserving wealth
Gemini (May 21 - June 21)
Gemini (May 21 - June 21, Latin: Gemini) is characterized by having two personalities in one, making them unpredictable. If you'd like to know more about Gemini, we recommend reading our detailed article on Gemini traits.
Typical traits of Gemini, the third zodiac sign:
- Masculine sign
- Dominant
- Natural leader
- Intellectual and social
- Sanguine temperament
- Adaptable and versatile
- Ruling planet: Mercury
- Excellent communication skills, curious nature
- Quick-witted and dynamic
Cancer (June 22 - July 22)
Cancer (June 22 - July 22, Latin: Cancer) is the fourth zodiac sign and the first water sign, known for acting on emotions. If you'd like to explore more about Cancer, we recommend reading our in-depth article on Cancer traits.
Key characteristics of Cancer individuals:
- Feminine sign
- Great listeners
- Emotional, intuitive, and perceptive
- Phlegmatic temperament
- Ambitious and driven
- Ruling planet: Moon
- Compassionate, nurturing, imaginative, and sensitive
- Prone to being easily influenced
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Leo (July 23 - August 22)
Leo (July 23 - August 22, Latin: Leo) is the fifth zodiac sign, known for its courage, temperament, and resolute nature. If you'd like to dive deeper into Leo, we recommend reading our comprehensive article focused on Leo traits.
Typical traits of Leo, the fifth zodiac sign:
- Masculine sign
- Dominant
- Loves to rule and lead
- Fire element
- Passionate, active, and energetic
- Choleric temperament
- Stable, determined, and resilient
- Stubborn and steadfast
- Ruling planet: Sun
- Strong charisma, organizational skills, and dignity
Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
Virgos (August 23 - September 22, Latin: Virgo) are people you'd always want by your side, thanks to their balance, positivity, and intellect. To learn more about Virgo, we recommend reading our detailed article on Virgo traits.
Key characteristics of Virgo individuals:
- Feminine sign
- Patient and great listeners
- Practical and grounded
- Melancholic temperament
- Versatile, with a rich inner life
- Ruling planet: Mercury
- Analytical, communicative, and detail-oriented
