Zodiac sign:

The term "zodiac sign" refers to one of the twelve astrological signs in Western astrology, each associated with a specific time period of the year and particular personality traits, behaviors, and tendencies. These signs are part of the zodiac, a belt of the heavens within about 8° either side of the ecliptic, which includes the apparent paths of the sun, moon, and principal planets.

### The Twelve Zodiac Signs

1. Aries (March 21 - April 19):

- Element: Fire

- Ruling Planet: Mars

- Symbol: The Ram

- Traits: Energetic, assertive, and ambitious. Aries individuals are known for their enthusiasm and dynamic nature, often taking the lead in projects and initiatives.

2. Taurus (April 20 - May 20):

- Element: Earth

- Ruling Planet: Venus

- Symbol: The Bull

- Traits: Reliable, patient, and practical. Taureans are known for their love of comfort and luxury, as well as their strong determination and loyalty.

3. Gemini (May 21 - June 20):

- Element: Air

- Ruling Planet: Mercury

- Symbol: The Twins

- Traits: Adaptable, outgoing, and intelligent. Geminis are often sociable and enjoy learning and communicating new ideas.

4. Cancer (June 21 - July 22):

- Element: Water

- Ruling Planet: Moon

- Symbol: The Crab

- Traits: Emotional, nurturing, and protective. Cancerians are deeply intuitive and often seek security and comfort in their homes and families.

5. Leo (July 23 - August 22):

- Element: Fire

- Ruling Planet: Sun

- Symbol: The Lion

- Traits: Confident, charismatic, and creative. Leos are natural leaders who thrive on attention and are often generous and warm-hearted.

6. Virgo (August 23 - September 22):

- Element: Earth

- Ruling Planet: Mercury

- Symbol: The Virgin

- Traits: Analytical, meticulous, and practical. Virgos are known for their attention to detail and their desire to help and serve others.

7. Libra (September 23 - October 22):

- Element: Air

- Ruling Planet: Venus

- Symbol: The Scales

- Traits: Diplomatic, charming, and fair-minded. Libras seek harmony and balance in their relationships and surroundings.

8. Scorpio (October 23 - November 21):

- Element: Water

- Ruling Planet: Pluto (Mars, traditionally)

- Symbol: The Scorpion

- Traits: Intense, passionate, and resourceful. Scorpios are known for their depth of emotion and their determination.

9. Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21):

- Element: Fire

- Ruling Planet: Jupiter

- Symbol: The Archer

- Traits: Adventurous, optimistic, and philosophical. Sagittarians love exploring new ideas and places, and they value freedom.

10. Capricorn (December 22 - January 19):

- Element: Earth

- Ruling Planet: Saturn

- Symbol: The Goat

- Traits: Disciplined, responsible, and ambitious. Capricorns are known for their strong work ethic and their ability to achieve their goals.

11. Aquarius (January 20 - February 18):

- Element: Air

- Ruling Planet: Uranus (Saturn, traditionally)

- Symbol: The Water Bearer

- Traits: Innovative, independent, and humanitarian. Aquarians often have a unique perspective on life and value progress and originality.

12. Pisces (February 19 - March 20):

- Element: Water

- Ruling Planet: Neptune (Jupiter, traditionally)

- Symbol: The Fish

- Traits: Compassionate, artistic, and intuitive. Pisceans are known for their empathy and their strong connection to their emotions and the spiritual realm.

### Astrological Elements and Modalities

The zodiac signs are grouped into four elements:

- Fire: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius

- Earth: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn

- Air: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius

- Water: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

Each element represents fundamental qualities and energies. Additionally, the signs are categorized by modalities:

- Cardinal: Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn (initiating and leading)

- Fixed: Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius (stabilizing and sustaining)

- Mutable: Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces (adapting and changing)

### Zodiac Signs and Personality

Astrologers believe that the position of the stars and planets at the time of a person's birth influences their personality, behavior, and life events. Each zodiac sign is thought to imbue certain qualities and characteristics in individuals born under it. While astrology is considered a pseudoscience by the scientific community, it remains a popular and culturally significant practice for many people around the world.