Capricorn

Capricorn

 or Capricornus

(Latin: “Goat horn”) In astronomy, the constellation lying between Aquarius and Sagittarius; in astrology, the tenth sign of the zodiac, governing approximately the period December 22–January 19. It is represented as a goat with what appears to be a fishtail. One explanation for this odd depiction is that it derives from the Greek myth of Pan. To avoid the monster Typhon, Pan jumped into the water just as he was changing into animal shape. The half of his body above water became a goat, while the submerged half took the shape of a fish. Another relates the form to the Mesopotamian deity Enki (see Ea).

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Capricorn

1. Astrology

a. the tenth sign of the zodiac, symbol ♑, having a cardinal earth classification and ruled by the planet Saturn. The sun is in this sign between about Dec. 22 and Jan. 19

b. a person born during the period when the sun is in this sign

2. Astronomy another name for Capricornus

3. tropic of Capricorn See tropic

4. Astrology born under or characteristic of Capricorn

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Capricorn

goat (Dec. 22–Jan. 19). [Astrology: Hall, 315]

See : Zodiac

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Capricorn

a zodiacal constellation (seeZODIAC) in the southern hemisphere. The brightest star—δ Capricorni— has a visual magnitude of 2.8. Two thousand years ago, when the constellations were named in ancient Greece, the winter solstice was located in Capricorn; this explains the name of the southern tropic—the Tropic of Capricorn. The most favorable viewing conditions are in July and August. Capricorn is visible in the southern regions of the USSR. SeeSTELLAR SKY.