Astrology on the Web: Glossary of Astrological Terms

The Language of the Stars

To unlock the mysteries of the zodiac, one must understand the language of astrology. The glossary provided herein serves as a key to deciphering the essential terms that form the foundation of astrological practice. Delve into the meanings and applications of these terms to enhance your cosmic consciousness.

Astrological Fundamentals

Abscission of Light: The prevention of the culmination of an aspect by the intervention of another. It is a concept used in Horary Astrology, often referred to as Frustration.
Accidental Dignity: A planet dignified by its favourable position, motion, or aspect, though not in its Essential Dignity.
Affliction: Refers to adverse aspects between planets, or between a planet and a cusp or other sensitive point in a natal chart.
Air Element: One of the four astrological elements representing intellect and communication, associated with the masculine energy.
Air Signs: Comprising Libra (cardinal), Aquarius (fixed), and Gemini (mutable), these signs are influenced by the element of Air.
Alfridaria: A system of planetary periods of Persian origin for forecasting historical and life events.
Alpheta (Giver of Life): Corresponds with the hyleg and indicates life-giving places in one's astrological chart.
Anareta: A planet that threatens life, often associated with the cause of death in a natal chart.
Angles: The most significant houses in a horoscope, including the First, Tenth, Seventh, and Fourth houses.
Antipathy: Describes inharmonious relations between planets.
Antiscion: An equal distance on either side of the equator or a house cusp.
Aphelion: The point in a planet's orbit that is farthest from the Sun.
Apogee: The point in a celestial body's orbit farthest from Earth.
Apparent Motion: The illusion of the celestial bodies rising in the east and setting in the west due to Earth's rotation.
Application: When one planet approaches another or a sensitive point in the astrological chart, such as a cusp.

Signs and Symbols

Aquarius: The eleventh sign of the zodiac, associated with the Water-bearer, is a fixed air sign.
Arabic Parts: Significant points on the ecliptic derived from the relationship between planets or other significant points.
Arc: Refers to the distance measured along the celestial sphere.
Aries: The initiator of the zodiac, Aries the Ram, characterized as a cardinal fire sign.
Ascendant: The sign and degree that rise on the eastern horizon, marking the cusp of the First House.

Celestial Phenomena

Aspect: Angular distances between planets or between planets and other sensitive points that have unique meanings.
Asteroids: Small celestial bodies orbiting between Mars and Jupiter that hold astrological significance.
Average Daily Motion: The mean motion of a planet over 24 hours, with deviations considered significant.
Azimene: Referred to as "weak" degrees, these are believed to be tied to tendencies for physical ailments or disabilities.