astrology
astrology
Pronunciation
astrology (əˈstɹɒlədʒi)
ə - Schwa (unstressed central vowel sound)
ˈs - Alveolar plosive (similar to "s" in "sip")
tɹ - Alveolar trill (a short trilled "r" sound)
ɒ - Open back rounded vowel (similar to "o" in "hot")
l - Alveolar lateral approximant (similar to "l" in "lip")
ə - Schwa (unstressed central vowel sound)
dʒ - Dvoiced palato-alveolar affricate (similar to "j" in "judge")
i - Close front unrounded vowel (similar to "ee" in "feet")
Word Form Variations
The word "astrology" has the following variations:
Singular: astrology (This is the most common form)
Plural: astrologies (This plural form is less common and can sound a bit awkward. It's generally used when referring to different systems of astrology or specific historical examples.)
Adjective: astrological (e.g., astrological chart, astrological sign)
Adverb: astrologically (e.g., The forecast was interpreted astrologically)
Related Noun: astrologer (someone who practices astrology)
Definitions, Synonyms, Antonyms
Noun:
Astrology (əˈstrɒlədʒi):
Definition: An ancient belief system that studies the positions and movements of celestial objects (such as the sun, moon, planets, and stars) in the belief that they hold influence over human affairs and terrestrial events.
Synonyms: horoscopy, stargazing (informal), astral divination (formal)
Antonyms: astronomy (scientific study of celestial objects)
Adjective:
Astrological (əˌstrəˈlädʒɪkəl):
Definition: Of or relating to astrology.
Synonyms: horoscope-based, astral (informal)
Antonyms: astronomical (based on scientific study of celestial objects)
Adverb:
Astrologically (əˌstrəˈlädʒɪkəli):
Definition: In a way that relates to astrology or its principles.
Synonyms: according to astrology, from an astrological perspective
Antonyms: astronomically (based on scientific study of celestial objects)
Verb (not common, but can be used figuratively):
To astrologize (əˈstrɒlədʒaɪz): (informal)
Definition: To interpret events or predict the future based on astrological principles.
Synonyms: divine by astrology, read the stars (informal)
Antonyms: No direct antonym, but phrases like "use scientific methods" or "analyze based on evidence" could be used for contrast.
Examples of Use
Books:
She sat down opposite him and spread out her birth chart, a complex web of lines and symbols that represented the positions of the planets at the moment of her birth. (Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt)
Newspapers:
A new study suggests a possible link between astrology signs and personality traits, but scientists remain sceptical. (The New York Times)
Online Publications:
Many online communities offer daily horoscopes based on your astrological sign. (Vice website)
Entertainment Mediums:
Movies: In the movie Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Professor Trelawney, the Divination teacher, incorporates astrology into her lessons.
TV Shows: Many TV shows, like The Simpsons, reference astrology through characters with strong belief in it, or by incorporating astrological signs as plot points.
General Public Discourse:
"I'm a Cancer, so I'm naturally more emotional." (Conversation between friends discussing their astrological signs)
"The company claims their product is 'astrologically aligned' for better sleep, but there's no scientific evidence to support that." (Online product review)
Bonus Example:
Historical Context: Throughout history, astrology has played a significant role in various cultures. For instance, mediaeval European courts often employed astrologers to advise on political and military decisions. (Encyclopedia Britannica reference on Astrology)
10 Famous Quotes Using the term Astrology
While there aren't many direct quotes about "astrology" itself that are particularly famous, here are 10 quotes that touch on astrology, celestial influences, or related themes:
"There's a sermon now, writ in high heaven, and the sun goes through it every year, and yet comes out of it all alive and hearty." (Ralph Waldo Emerson, American philosopher) - This quote references the cyclical nature of the heavens, a concept explored in astrology.
“The stars incline us, they do not compel us.” (Desiderius Erasmus, Dutch philosopher) - This quote speaks to the idea of astrology's influence but not predetermination.
“Astronomy compels the study of mathematics; just as geometry compels the study of astronomy.” (Marcus Tullius Cicero, Roman philosopher) - This quote differentiates astronomy (scientific study) from astrology.
“As above, so below.” (Hermes Trismegistus, legendary founder of Hermeticism) - This core principle of Hermeticism is echoed in astrology, where celestial bodies are believed to mirror earthly events.
“We are all made of stardust.” (Carl Sagan, American astronomer) - This quote emphasises the cosmic connection explored in both astrology and astronomy.
“A fool sees not the same sky as a wise man.” (Chinese Proverb) - This proverb suggests different perspectives on the heavens, possibly including interpretations through astrology.
“Being realistic is the most unrealistic thing to be in this world.” (Oscar Wilde, Irish playwright) - This quote reflects the non-scientific nature of astrology, which some might consider unrealistic.
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” (Eleanor Roosevelt, former First Lady of the United States) - This quote on hope and dreams can be seen as contrasting with predetermined fate in astrology.
“The only stars I believe in are the ones in my eyes.” (Paris Hilton, American socialite) - This playful quote dismisses the idea of astrology's influence.
“The nearer we get to the truth, the more improbable it seems.” (Niels Bohr, Danish physicist) - This quote reflects the ongoing debate around the validity of astrology.
Etymology
The word "astrology" is like a puzzle with two ancient Greek words put together.
The first piece is "astron" which means "star." Think of it like how astronauts travel among the stars.
The second piece is "logia" which means "study" or "account." It's like the "ology" in biology (study of life) or geology (study of Earth).
So, literally, "astrology" translates to "study of stars."
The first time someone used this word in a similar way we do today was way back in ancient Greece. They believed that the positions of the stars and planets could tell you about your life and the future.
Phrases + Idioms Containing the term Astrology
Astrology has some unique phrases and idioms that capture its essence. Here are a few:
Under a lucky star: This means someone is experiencing good fortune, possibly influenced by a favourable astrological sign.
Born under a bad sign: This signifies someone seems to be having a run of bad luck, perhaps due to an unfavourable astrological influence.
The stars are aligned: This implies things are perfectly positioned for success, suggesting a harmonious astrological configuration.
Not written in the stars: This means something is not predetermined by fate or astrology.
To read the stars: This signifies interpreting astrological charts to understand future events or personalities.
Starry-eyed: This describes someone who is overly optimistic or idealistic, possibly influenced by a romanticised view of astrology.
Posts Related to Astrology
Source Information
Definition of astrology from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.