Horoscopy: meaning, definitions and examples
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horoscopy
[ hɔːrəˌskɒpi ]
astrology prediction
Horoscopy is the practice of predicting future events or determining personality characteristics based on the positions of celestial bodies at the time of a person's birth. It is a key aspect of astrology and is often used to create a horoscope, which provides insights about a person's life and experiences.
Synonyms
astrology, horoscope, zodiac reading
Examples of usage
- She consulted a horoscopy expert for guidance on her career.
- Many believe that horoscopy can reveal their true self.
- He spends hours reading horoscopy charts to understand his future.
Word origin
The term 'horoscopy' originates from the ancient Greek word 'horoskopos', which means 'to look at the hour'. This is associated with the practice of astrology, where the exact time and position of celestial bodies are analyzed to make predictions. Historically, horoscopy developed from the merging of Greek and Babylonian astronomical traditions around the 2nd century BCE. It gained prominence during the Hellenistic period when astrology became an integral part of cultural and intellectual life. As astrology spread across different civilizations, horoscopy was adapted and transformed, leading to the various forms of horoscope creation that we see today in modern astrology. The science and art of horoscopy have continued to evolve, integrating new astronomical discoveries while retaining its core belief that the positions of the stars and planets influence human affairs.