Astrology & Numerology Terms Explained : A Quick Reference Glossary

Astrology and Numerology Terms are the foundational language of cosmic and spiritual discovery. Welcome to your ultimate quick-reference glossary, meticulously compiled to be your comprehensive dictionary for both ancient practices. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just beginning your journey into self-discovery, this guide demystifies the essential concepts you’ll encounter. We define everything from the core astrological elements like Sun Signs, Houses, and intricate Aspects (like Trine and Opposition) to the key numerological calculations such as your Life Path Number, Expression Number, and the messages hidden within Angel Numbers. Use this resource to gain clear, confident interpretations of birth charts, yearly forecasts, and number sequences.

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Astrology Terms

Ascendant (Rising Sign)

The zodiac sign that was rising on the eastern horizon at your exact birth time and location. It represents how you appear to others, your approach to life, and your outer personality.

Birth Chart (Natal Chart)

A snapshot of the sky at the moment of your birth. It maps the positions of the planets, Sun, and Moon, showing your unique personality patterns, strengths, and life themes.

Zodiac

The twelve 30-degree segments of the ecliptic, each corresponding to one of the twelve signs—Aries through Pisces. These signs color the way planetary energies express themselves.

Zodiac Wheel

A circular diagram representing the 360° of the zodiac. Used in charts to display planets, houses, and signs visually.

Sun Sign

Your core identity and ego, determined by the position of the Sun at your birth. It reflects your main character traits and life force energy.

Moon Sign

Determined by the Moon’s position at your birth. It governs emotions, habits, and instinctual reactions.

Houses

The twelve sections of a birth chart that represent different life areas, such as self-image (1st house), relationships (7th), or career (10th).

Aspects

Angles formed between planets. They describe how different parts of your personality interact and influence each other. Major aspects include:

• Conjunction (0°): Energies merge and intensify.
• Square (90°): Tension or challenges that drive action.
• Opposition (180°): Balance between opposing forces.
• Trine (120°): Natural harmony and ease.
• Sextile (60°): Cooperation and opportunity.

Retrograde

When a planet appears to move backward in the sky. Symbolically, it represents reflection, review, and redoing themes related to that planet.

Elements

The four energetic qualities of the zodiac signs:

• Fire: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius — action and inspiration.
• Earth: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn — stability and practicality.
• Air: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius — intellect and communication.
• Water: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces — emotion and intuition.

Modalities

Cardinal (initiators), Fixed (stabilizers), and Mutable (adapters). Each sign expresses its energy through one of these modes.

Lunar Nodes

The North and South Nodes represent life lessons: the North Node points to growth, while the South Node symbolizes comfort zones or past patterns.

Transit

When current planetary movements interact with your natal chart, activating specific life themes.

Progressions

A symbolic timing technique showing inner psychological development over the years. Each day after birth equals one year of life.

Synastry

The comparison of two natal charts to understand relationship compatibility and dynamics.

Stellium

Three or more planets clustered in one sign or house, emphasizing that area of life.

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Numerology Terms

Numerology

The study of numbers as spiritual symbols reflecting personality traits, destiny, and life purpose. It interprets names and birth dates to reveal deeper meaning.

Life Path Number

Derived from your full birth date. It represents your core purpose and the main direction your life takes. For example, if your birth date adds up to 5, your Life Path number is 5—linked to freedom, adventure, and change.

Expression (Destiny) Number

Calculated from the full name at birth using a number-letter conversion chart. It shows natural abilities, talents, and the way you’re meant to express yourself in the world.

Soul Urge (Heart’s Desire) Number

Calculated from the vowels in your full birth name. It reveals your inner yearnings, passions, and emotional motivations.

Personality Number

Calculated from the consonants in your full birth name. It shows how others perceive you and the outer image you project.

Maturity Number

Found by adding your Life Path and Expression Numbers. It represents the qualities and wisdom that emerge later in life.

Birthday Number

The day of the month you were born. It adds flavor to your Life Path and reveals a particular talent or focus area.

Master Numbers

11, 22, and 33 are considered Master Numbers—amplified vibrations representing higher spiritual potential, intuition, or leadership. They are often not reduced to a single digit.

Karmic Debt Numbers

Numbers like 13, 14, 16, and 19 symbolize lessons or challenges that require effort and responsibility to overcome.

Angel Numbers

Repeating sequences like 111, 222, or 444 that carry symbolic messages or affirmations. Popularly interpreted as signs of alignment or guidance from the universe.

Personal Year Number

A yearly numerology cycle based on your birth date and the current year. It offers insight into yearly themes or opportunities.

Chaldean vs. Pythagorean Systems

Two main numerology methods. The Pythagorean system (most common) uses a 1–9 sequence for letters, while the Chaldean system uses 1–8, treating 9 as sacred and excluded from regular calculations.

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Quick Differences

• Astrology vs. Numerology: Astrology interprets planets and signs in a birth chart; numerology interprets numbers from names and dates.
• Life Path vs. Expression: Life Path comes from your birth date (life purpose); Expression comes from your full name (talents and potential).
• Sun vs. Moon vs. Rising: Sun shows your essence, Moon your emotions, and Rising your outer style.
• Transits vs. Progressions: Transits are current planetary influences; progressions are symbolic inner developments over time.

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Final Thoughts

This glossary is designed to simplify astrology and numerology for readers and content creators alike. Whether you’re interpreting a birth chart or exploring your Life Path number, understanding these terms gives you a solid foundation for deeper insight into yourself and others.