Astrology Terms: Letter C

Browse 10 astrology terms starting with the letter C.

Reviewed byKenneth O. Patterson·Astrologer & Content Director

Showing 10 of 92 terms

C

Cancer

The fourth sign of the zodiac (June 21 - July 22), a cardinal water sign ruled by the Moon. Cancer is associated with nurturing, emotional depth, and home.

Learn more: Zodiac Signs →

Capricorn

The tenth sign of the zodiac (December 22 - January 19), a cardinal earth sign ruled by Saturn. Capricorn is associated with ambition, discipline, and responsibility.

Learn more: Zodiac Signs →

Cardinal Signs

The four signs that begin each season: Aries (spring), Cancer (summer), Libra (autumn), and Capricorn (winter). Cardinal signs are initiators and leaders.

Learn more: Modalities →

Cazimi

When a planet is within 17 arc minutes (less than 0.3 degrees) of the exact center of the Sun. Unlike combust, cazimi is considered a position of great strength and empowerment.

Chart Ruler

The planet that rules the sign on the Ascendant. The chart ruler is one of the most important planets in the birth chart, influencing your overall life direction and personality.

Chiron

An asteroid/comet orbiting between Saturn and Uranus, known as the "Wounded Healer." Chiron's placement shows your deepest wound and your capacity to heal others through that experience.

Combust

When a planet is within approximately 8 degrees of the Sun, its energy is said to be overwhelmed or "burned up" by solar intensity, weakening the planet's expression.

Composite Chart

A chart created by calculating the midpoints between two people's natal planets, representing the relationship itself as a separate entity.

Learn more: Composite Charts →

Conjunction

An aspect formed when two planets are at or near 0 degrees apart. Conjunctions merge planetary energies, intensifying their combined expression.

Learn more: Aspects →

Cusp

The dividing line between two zodiac signs or two astrological houses. Being "born on the cusp" means your Sun is near the boundary between two signs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an astrology glossary?▾
An astrology glossary is a comprehensive reference that defines the specialized terminology used in astrological practice. It covers zodiac signs, planets, houses, aspects, chart types, and advanced concepts like dignity, decan, and sect, helping beginners and experienced practitioners alike communicate clearly about astrological topics.
How many terms does astrology use?▾
Professional astrology uses hundreds of technical terms. This glossary covers over 80 of the most essential terms, including all 12 zodiac signs, 10 planets, 12 houses, 6 major aspects, 7 chart types, and dozens of key concepts like retrograde, stellium, and chart ruler.
What is the difference between a sign, a planet, and a house?▾
In astrology, planets represent fundamental drives (what energy), signs describe how those drives express themselves (how the energy manifests), and houses indicate where in life the energy plays out (which life area). For example, Venus (love) in Scorpio (intensely) in the 7th house (partnerships) describes someone who loves deeply and passionately in close relationships.
Do I need to know all these terms to read a birth chart?▾
No. Start with the basics: the 12 zodiac signs, the 10 planets, and the concept of houses. As you gain experience, you can explore more advanced terms like aspects, dignities, and chart patterns. This glossary is organized alphabetically so you can look up terms as you encounter them.