What does horoscope mean?
A horoscope is a prediction based on astrology: the belief that the positions of celestial bodies at a person's birth can influence their character, relationships, health, or future. A horoscope is commonly associated with one of the twelve zodiac signs, such as Capricorn or Leo, and appears in newspapers, magazines, websites, and social media. In everyday use, “horoscope” can mean either an individual reading or the general practice of publishing zodiac-based predictions. The term is usually informal and often refers to a form of entertainment rather than a scientifically reliable forecast. Expressions such as “read your horoscope” and “a daily horoscope” are especially common in popular contexts. Although many people read horoscopes casually or for amusement, others consult them as guidance, reflecting the continuing cultural influence of astrology.
nounA prediction of a person's character, prospects, or future events based on the position of the planets and the zodiac sign associated with their birth. The word can also refer more broadly to the practice or system of such predictions.
- A prediction about a person's character, future, or circumstances based on astrological signs and planetary positions.
- The branch of astrology concerned with making such predictions, or a published column containing them.
"She read her horoscope every morning before checking the weather."
"The newspaper publishes a horoscope for every sign of the zodiac."
"He dismissed the horoscope as superstition but enjoyed reading it for fun."
Used when referring to predictions for different people or zodiac signs, or to multiple published readings.
"The magazine publishes horoscopes for all twelve zodiac signs."
The word horoscope literally means “watcher of the hour,” an image that captures its ancient roots in observing the sky.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does horoscope come from?
The English word comes through Latin from Greek horoskopos, a compound of hṓra, meaning “hour” or “time,” and skopos, meaning “watcher” or “observer.” In ancient astrology, the term referred to the configuration of the heavens at a particular moment, especially the time of birth. English adopted the word in the 16th century, and it developed from a general astrological observation into its modern sense of a zodiac-based prediction.
Related word forms
How horoscope is actually used
Informal and popular rather than technical. Astrology is not scientifically supported, and horoscope readings are generally understood as entertainment, although some people take them seriously.
Easily confused with horoscope
Horology is the art and science of measuring time and making clocks and watches, whereas a horoscope is an astrological prediction.