Zodiac Signs: All About The 12 Horoscope Signs in Astrology

Discover the 12 zodiac signs of astrology. What are the dates and symbols, meanings and compatibility for the zodiac signs?

Zodiac signs are associated with specific times of the year. Each zodiac sign represents certain personality traits, has a ruling planet, and predicts relationship compatibility. This article explores everything you need to know about the 12 zodiac signs.

Fire signs: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius 

If you want to spark things up, the fire signs—zodiac signs Aries, Leo and Sagittarius—can ignite the action. These excitable, creative and visionary zodiac signs jump right in and play instead of waiting for permission or worrying terribly about making a mistake. They know that every ember has the potential to be a roaring pyre.

At times this combustible energy can make you feel like an untamed blaze, burning through resources at an unsustainable rate. At other moments, it can raise the heat to an ideal temperature to get things cooking.

Earth signs: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn

If you want to get solid on any aspect of your life, the Earth signs—zodiac signs Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn—help you plant the deep roots needed for long-term growth. These thoughtful, pragmatic signs inspire action that’s based in core values. When you’re on familiar ground, you can relax and think through important life decisions.

At times this terrain can feel heavy, leaving you “stuck in the mud.” At other moments, such terra firma creates an optimal launch pad for achieving liftoff.

Air signs: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius

If you want to get things moving, the Air element signs—zodiac signs Gemini, Libra and Aquarius—act as the “winds of change.” These mobile, intellectual signs inspire action, innovation and out-of-the-box ideas. When a strong gust hits you, you can’t help but move.

At times this breezy energy can make you feel like an “airhead,” blowing this way and that without a clear direction. At other moments, it can be as powerful as a gravity-defying G-force, launching you straight to your desired destination.

Water signs: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

If you want to ease into the flow of life instead of swimming upstream, the Water signs—zodiac signs Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces—act as a powerful current. These tuned-in, emotionally savvy signs remind you of the power of empathy and intimate connection. When a giant wave rolls in, you can’t help but be swept along.

At times this swirling energy can make you feel like you’re drowning in your emotions. At other moments, it can bring the powerful inner knowing that guides you to make the most nourishing moves for yourself.

---

The Zodiac Signs Represent 3 “Qualities” in Astrology

The 12 zodiac signs are subdivided into qualities or modalities: cardinal, mutable and fixed signs.

Whether your zodiac sign (aka your Sun sign) is cardinal, mutable or fixed, your quality or modality plays an important role in the world.

A balanced mix on any team can be ideal, as long as you play to your unique strengths—which we’ll help you decode! If you were putting together a record deal, for example, the qualities would work like this:

Cardinal signs: Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn

Cardinal signs would be the stars, or the promoters, or the trendsetters who create the act.

Fixed signs: Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius

Fixed signs would be the patient workhorses who produce the album.

Mutable signs: Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces

Mutable signs would be the editors who take the near-finished product and do the final mastering and remixing.

---

About the 12 Zodiac Signs: Traits, Ruling Planets, Relationship Compatibility

Below is each zodiac sign’s key traits, ruling planets and compatibility in love and relationships.

Jump to

• ARIES
• TAURUS
• GEMINI
• CANCER
• LEO
• VIRGO
• LIBRA
• SCORPIO
• SAGITTARIUS
• CAPRICORN
• AQUARIUS
• PISCES

Aries zodiac sign

Aries traits

Aries is the first of the zodiac signs, born to be number one. The Aries person is a solo star who steals the spotlight and inspires everyone with your confidence. Aries people, fire signs, can be impatient, even a little bossy, especially when they don’t get your way. As the “baby” of the zodiac, the Aries star sign needs lots of attention and can throw quite the tantrum when you don’t get it.

Aries ruling planet

Aries is ruled by warrior planet and energy activator Mars. The masculine force is ruled by this “yang” planet. On a positive note, Aries cycles can fill us with unstoppable life-force energy. The negative manifestation is that we can become argumentative, confrontational and aggressive. Mars is the mythological god of war, and was often worshipped by the ancient Romans. He’s often shown with battle attire, fully equipped with shield and sword and ready for action!

Aries compatibility

In love and relationships, Aries is an independent sign that adores romance but also needs plenty of breathing room. Aries tends to be a one-on-one person in relationships. This sign enjoys having ample solo time with a partner and loves to be the center of their mate’s attention. Are you compatible with Aries?

Learn more about the Aries zodiac sign

Taurus zodiac sign

Taurus traits

The Taurus star sign is ruled by the persistent and determined Bull. When it comes to their energy, the typical Taurus person has two speeds. They’re either relaxed and contented (picture them luxuriating in a verdant pasture) or hyped-up and ready to charge. (Toro, toro!) The Taurus zodiac sign has a built-in energy conservation program. Taurus people will patiently assess whether something is worth the investment of time and resources. Then if the green light flashes, it’s all systems go! Until then, slow and steady wins the Taurus race.

Taurus ruling planet

Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of love, luxury, and beauty. Legend has it that when Saturn castrated his father, Uranus, Uranus’ blood spilled into the sea, impregnating the sea foam and giving birth to the goddess Venus. (Who knew this charming goddess came from such violent origins?)

In Renaissance artist Sandro Botticelli’s famous painting The Birth of Venus, the goddess is fully naked, perched exquisitely on a clam shell. That is sensual Taurus in a nutshell. This sign’s Venusian energy adds charm and embellishment to everything it touches, from food to fashion to home decor.

Taurus compatibility

In love and relationships, Taurus is a complex combo of toughness and sensitivity. Taurus can be old fashioned. This sign is composed on the outside but a hopeless romantic on the inside, looking for that “love of a lifetime.” Are you compatible with Taurus?

Learn more about the Taurus zodiac sign

Gemini zodiac sign

Gemini traits

Gemini is the sign that rules communication and they love ideas! Gemini people come across as clever and quick-witted. Ruled by Mercury, the messenger planet, Gemini is the news person of the zodiac signs—the unofficial Google among friends with recommendations for books, music, movies and podcasts. Typical Geminis are are eager to dish out the juiciest pieces of news and happenings to their friends via text message and social media. The Gemini star sign is always up to something new and exciting. They love vacations, trendy clothes and any gadgets they can tinker around with.

Gemini ruling planet

As mentioned, Gemini is ruled by the fleet-footed messenger planet Mercury. Mercury would usually carry out requests and tasks at the command of other gods, even adopting multiple personas in order to fulfill his missions. This fits perfectly with Gemini’s ability to communicate between people and play out its varied theatrical roles. Mercury is usually depicted wearing winged sandals and a winged hat, which fits perfectly with this airy sign’s vibe.

Gemini compatibility

In love and relationships, Gemini loves to flirt. This sign loves the thrill of the chase so much that it’s hard to recognize a fling from the real thing. Games are a Gemini favorite, and if you want to date a Gemini, you best want to play along! Are you compatible with Gemini?

Learn more about the Gemini zodiac sign

Cancer zodiac sign

Cancer traits

Cancer is the zodiac sign that rules home, family and emotions. The sensitive Cancer personality is ruled by the ever-changing moon. One key Cancer trait is to have moods that go through many cycles. You’re naturally intuitive, even psychic. Pay attention to your dreams, especially near a full moon. Cancer people are homebodies at heart, even if they’re out and about in the working world or the queen bees of their social hives. They love returning to a space that they can call their own. Home and deep bonds, especially female ones, keep them feeling secure.

Cancer ruling planet

Ah, la luna! The moon is the closest celestial body to our Earth—and the one that affects our moods the most. The moon rules the “inner” self, arousing our deepest soul desires and emotional cravings. In ancient Greek mythology, Serene served as the goddess of the moon, driving her horse-led chariot through the night sky. Although there are multiple lunar deities, all of them are depicted as feminine or female in nature.

Cancer compatibility

In love and relationships, Cancer is the sign of family and home. Cancer wants someone they can nurture, bond with and above all, trust with their tender hearts. This sign rules the heart (and its ruling planet is the moon), and doesn’t take matters of the heart lightly. Are you compatible with Cancer?

Learn more about the Cancer zodiac sign

Leo zodiac sign

Leo traits

Leo is one of the most passionate zodiac signs, here to open our hearts to joy. Ruled by the proud and fierce Lion, the Leo personality can be expressive and flamboyant in nature. Even quiet Leo people exude an energy that can’t be ignored. The Leo star sign inspires us to lead from the heart and wear our emotions on our sleeves.

A natural-born leader and performer, the typical Leo person loves to be the boss. The Leo star sign is also fiercely protective. You need mega-doses of praise and appreciation. This Leo trait may cause people to think you’re self-centered, but that’s where they have it wrong…The truth is, you have a huge heart, and you’re the most generous of the zodiac signs.

Leo ruling planet

Leo is ruled by the great ball of fire that is the center of our universe, the Sun. Typically, the Sun represents the ego and the masculine life force energy found in humans. In Ancient Greek and Roman Mythology, Apollo was the Sun god who drove his chariot of flaming horses around the Earth during the day time, setting the skies afire with bright light. It’s no wonder that Leo has such fierce and fiery fervency!

Leo compatibility

In love and relationships, Leo loves being in love and wants everyone to know when they are. This theatrical sign is affectionate and loyal, and seeks a partner who shares those qualities and wants to play. Are you compatible with Leo?

Learn more about the Leo zodiac sign

Virgo zodiac sign

Virgo traits

Of the zodiac signs, Virgo is the sign of service, and you’re always there when help is needed. The typical Virgo person is a generous listener who gives great advice. You love to analyze everything! In fact, you can drive yourself crazy with this Virgo trait, because you never stop thinking. The Virgo star sign is a perfectionist who sees every flaw. At times (admit it) you’re a little too critical. On the outside, you seem sweet and innocent, but your quick mind never misses a detail. Relax your anxious brain by channeling it into a project, like solving a crossword puzzle, writing a story or organizing your home.

Virgo ruling planet

Virgo, like Gemini, is ruled by the fleet-footed messenger planet Mercury. In mythology, Mercury carried out requests and tasks at the command of other gods, even adopting multiple personas in order to fulfill his missions. This fits perfectly with Virgo’s ability to multitask and check off their never-ending to-do lists with precision.

Virgo compatibility

In love and relationships, for picky Virgo, romance can be a challenge because of this sign’s high standards. As the perfectionist among the zodiac signs, it’s hard for anyone to measure up to Virgo’s criteria. That said, this sign likes a project and can gravitate to “fixer-up” types who are anything but “perfect.” Are you compatible with Virgo?

Learn more about the Virgo zodiac sign

Libra zodiac sign

Libra traits

Libra is the zodiac sign that rules peace, love, and harmony. As the sign that falls in the middle of the zodiac signs, the Libra personality is all about balance. Charm and pleasant demeanor are among the Libra traits that can make this sign so soothing to be around. Libra is associated with the seventh house of the zodiac—it rules relationships, harmony and balance. Romantic and social, many Libras love to flirt. They may have a lot of admirers, and may break a few hearts along the way. But they can’t help it!

Libra ruling planet

Libra is ruled by Venus, the planet of love, art, and beauty. Venus energy adds charm and embellishment to everything it touches, from food to fashion to personality.

Although Venus has a gentle and aesthetic reputation, the myth behind this planet is pretty gruesome! Legend has it that when Saturn castrated his father, Uranus, Uranus’ blood spilled into the sea, impregnating the sea foam and giving birth to the goddess Venus. Renaissance artist Sandro Botticelli’s famous painting The Birth of Venus depicts the goddess Venus fully naked, perched exquisitely on a clam shell.

Libra compatibility

In love and relationships, Libra is a romantic idealist of the zodiac signs who will go to all ends of the Earth to find their perfect match. This relationship-focused sign will wait years for the right person, too, not content to rush to the altar. When the Libra wedding makes it to the calendar, the affair will be tasteful and elegant. Are you compatible with Libra?

Learn more about the Libra zodiac sign

Scorpio zodiac sign

Scorpio traits

Scorpio people are perhaps the most misunderstood and mysterious of the zodiac signs. Secretive by nature, your power can be felt even when you haven’t said a word! Scorpio is an intense zodiac sign, powerful and seductive. Scorpio is the sign that rules life, death and resurrection. Your life is a story of transformation and reinvention.

Many Scorpios are also drawn to “dark” things, and often wear the color black, or a shocking tone like red or hot pink. The essence of Scorpio energy is magnetic, passionate, loyal, protective, trendsetting, controlling, powerful, charismatic, transformational, focused, loyal, healing, psychic, bonding-oriented and brave.

Scorpio ruling planet

Scorpio is ruled by Pluto, god of the underworld and all things connected to the occult. The legend goes that the primary Greek gods—Jupiter, Neptune, and Pluto—drew straws to determine who would respectively rule the earth, the ocean, and the underworld. Unfortunately, Pluto received the bad end of the deal and was compelled to oversee the domain of the deceased. Pluto is often depicted sitting on his throne with a two-pronged staff. Since Pluto wasn’t discovered until the 1930s, Scorpio has Mars as its minor ruler. Mars is the god of war who is depicted as charging forth into battle.

Scorpio compatibility

In love and relationships, Scorpio has a reputation as “sexiest” of the zodiac signs. The Scorpio ruling planet is intense Pluto and this sign is drawn to the mysterious and taboo. For Scorpio, a healthy sex life is painted with the art of seduction. This sign is loves to be in a position of authority. Are you compatible with Scorpio?

Learn more about the Scorpio zodiac sign

Sagittarius zodiac sign

Sagittarius traits

Sagittarius loves adventure, learning and living life to the fullest. Wisdom seeking Sagittarius is the ultimate free spirit of the zodiac signs: optimistic, open-minded and ambitious. As the zodiac’s traveler, the Sagittarius star sign is happiest in wide-open spaces with plenty of adventure and excitement. The typical Sagittarius juggles a million projects, hobbies and friends. The more, the merrier! Sagittarius is forever pursuing a super-sized goal. Even when you fail, nothing can keep you down. You’ll chalk it up as a life lesson and inspire everyone with tales of your experience.

Sagittarius ruling planet

Sagittarius is ruled by expansive Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system. As a result, this sign can be larger than life. Jupiter is one of the gas giants, and indeed, overconfident Sagittarius energy can seem full of hot air at times. Leaping without looking is a Sagittarius habit. Luckily, fortunate Jupiter helps us land on our feet. But it’s not without a few bumps and bruises (also known as life lessons in the Book of Sag).

Jupiter was the most widely revered god in ancient Roman times, often referred to as Jupiter Optimus Maximus (literally translating to “all good” and “all powerful”). Not surprisingly, his was the largest temple in Rome. Sagittarius desires the biggest and best, at times to the point of excess and indulgence. In fact, Jupiter was the mythic god of the feast. People with Sagittarius in their charts may quickly expand in girth. Hedonism and decadence without limit can make Sagittarius energy too much of a good thing.

Sagittarius compatibility

In love and relationships, Sagittarius is an adventurer, always on the move, seeking novelty and knowledge. In love, this sign needs a travel companion to explore with. For Sagittarius, sex can be idealized. The Sagittarius ruling planet is larger-than-life Jupiter, which gives this sign the confidence to try many romantic partners.

Breakups for this sign are hard. As an eternal optimist, they’ll do anything to make a relationship work. If the other person isn’t willing to try, that’s when Sagittarius walks away. If this sign walks down the aisle, emphasis is on the party, not the ceremony. This sign’s fierce independence ensures nothing planned will be 100 percent by-the-book. Are you compatible with Sagittarius?

Learn more about the Sagittarius zodiac sign

Capricorn zodiac sign

Capricorn traits

Ambitious Capricorn people were born with their eyes on the prize. Once a Capricorn person has set sights on something, they begin to climb slowly and steadily toward that goal. Capricorn is symbolized by a mountain goat climbing up a rocky hill, taking one cautious step at a time. And that’s exactly how patient Capricorn people like to do everything.

Capricorn people may see life as an uphill battle, with the ultimate reward arriving only through suffering and sacrifice. If you’re born under the Capricorn star sign, remember to let yourself have fun, too! Life doesn’t always have to be a struggle. It’s okay to enjoy your victories, even if you didn’t work hard to win them. Lighten up and share your wacky, down-to-earth humor. When you get moody, let your family and closest friends be there for you—just as you always are for them.

Capricorn ruling planet

The planetary ruler of Capricorn is stern and authoritative Saturn. In Greek mythology, Saturn is also known as Cronus, who is literally “Father Time.” The legend goes that Saturn—in a rebellious act to overthrow his father, Uranus—castrated his dad and assumed power as the next-of-kin. Much like Saturn, Capricorns are the “daddy” sign of the Zodiac, and want to be respected for their paternalistic command. Additionally, Saturn is the planet of repression, which can make Capricorn urges come out in shocking or subversive ways. Don’t be surprised if Capricorn has a few freaky secrets under the stoic exterior.

Capricorn compatibility

In love and relationships, Capricorn is an ambitious sign who has mind on the past and the future but lives in the present with the right partner. Capricorn thinks love is serious business. This is the most goal-oriented of the zodiac signs. Are you compatible with Capricorn?

Learn more about the Capricorn zodiac sign

Aquarius zodiac sign

Aquarius traits

Aquarius is the sign that rules friendship, technology and the future. The Aquarius star sign is the mad scientist of the zodiac signs, always marching to their own beat. Want an idea of the typical Aquarius personality? The Aquarius star sign is ruled by Uranus, the only planet in the solar system that spins on its side! These rebellious and quirky people do it all their own way! One of the many Aquarius traits that makes you a paradox? You’re highly individualistic, but also an amazing team player. You might look like the fresh-faced guy or girl next door on the outside, but you’re a true individual…

Aquarius ruling planet

Uranus is the planet that rules emotional detachment, unpredictable energy and rebellion. In mythology, Uranus was the Sky God who mated with Gaia the Earth Goddess. He hated their children and imprisoned the youngest ones in the earth where they tormented Gaia. She made a sickle and asked her children to castrate Uranus. The youngest, Cronus (Saturn) did it.

After that, the Sky and Earth became separate. Interestingly, Saturn was considered the ruling planet of Aquarius until Uranus was discovered and named. Structured Saturn is still thought of as the “minor ruler” of Aquarius. This can explain why many Aquarian can be “Type A” and totally quirky all at the same time.

Aquarius compatibility

In love and relationships, Aquarius is an open-minded sign that can toggle between easy-breezy friendship and surprising bouts of emotional vulnerability. Simply put: As the sign of groups, Aquarians are sometimes slow to settle down. Are you compatible with Aquarius?

Learn more about the Aquarius zodiac sign

Pisces zodiac sign

Pisces traits

Pisces is the sign of imagination, art and empathy. You’re the last of the zodiac signs, an old soul with mystical powers should you choose to develop them. As one of the “dual signs,” the Pisces star sign is symbolized by two fish swimming in opposite directions. Inner conflict can be a classic Pisces trait. A part of you is always trying to “swim away” or escape reality. The other part is so intuitive that you get swept up in everything going on. Your imagination is the perfect Pisces hideout when you want to escape, since the Pisces zodiac sign is so creative.

Pisces ruling planet

The planetary ruler of Pisces is Neptune. The Ancient Romans praised and glorified Neptune as the almighty God of the Sea. When Jupiter and Pluto (or Zeus and Hades, as they’re referred to in Greek mythology) met with Neptune, they divided the three main realms of the Universe—earth, sea, and underworld—amongst themselves. Neptune was feared for his furious temper, which could incite earthquakes on land and intense storms for those away at sea.

Pisces compatibility

In love and relationships, Pisces can be all-consuming and addictive. This fantasy-loving sign loves to be in love (in theory!) The Pisces ruling planet is Neptune, planet OF fantasy. This sign wants to be swept away by romance. But Pisces can also be a hardcore realist. These two opposing things are rarely found in a partner, but Pisces is determined to find it! Are you compatible with Pisces?

Learn more about the Pisces zodiac sign

Be sure to read our daily horoscopes for all of the zodiac signs, plus weekly and monthly horoscopes (all free!) and so much more, from The AstroTwins.