Per un lessico dell’astronomia classica (3). Segni e costellazioni zodiacali: ζῴδιον

Abstract

This note concerns the term ζῴδιον, from which the Zodiac takes its name. It has a double meaning. On the one hand, it is used as ‘constellation’, in reference to the figures in which the stars observed in the sky are grouped: this meaning is well contained in its own etymology. On the other hand, it is used as ‘sign’, in reference to the geometric division of the Zodiac into twelve parts.

English title: Towards a Lexicon of Classical Astronomy (3).Zodiac Signs and Constellations: ζῴδιον