Astrology Glossary
Concise definitions for core technical terms referenced across our educational articles. Hover over highlighted terms inside articles for quick tooltips.
angular houses
1st, 4th, 7th, 10th houses—high expression and visibility of planetary energies.
applying aspect
An aspect forming as faster planet moves toward exact degree contact with a slower one.
dispositor
The planet that rules the sign another planet occupies; forms chains showing hierarchical flow of chart energy.
lunar nodes
Points where the Moon’s orbit intersects the ecliptic; used for eclipse prediction and developmental polarity analysis.
orb
Allowable degree distance between planets for an aspect to be considered active.
retrograde
Apparent backward motion of a planet from Earth perspective, signaling review/reassessment phases.
sect
Classical distinction dividing charts (day/night) and assigning planets to diurnal or nocturnal teams affecting their behavior.
separating aspect
An aspect that has passed exactness; energy shifts from peak expression to integration.
stellium
Three or more planets in one sign or house, creating concentrated thematic emphasis.
synastry
Technique comparing two natal charts to study interaction patterns and relational dynamics.