zo|di|ac

zo|di|ac «ZOH dee ak», noun.

1. an imaginary belt of the heavens, extending about 8 degrees on both sides of the apparent yearly path of the sun and including the paths of the major planets and the moon. The zodiac is divided into 12 equal parts, called signs, named after 12 constellations. Each constellation now (because of the precession of the equinoxes) is in the sign named for the following constellation.

2. a diagram representing the zodiac, used in astrology.

3. Figurative. a) a recurrent series, round, or course. b) compass; range. c) a set of twelve.

4. a girdle.

╂[< Old French zodiaque, learned borrowing from Latin zōdiacus < Greek zōidiakós (kýklos) (circle) of the figures < z zodiacal sign; (originally) sculptured figure of an animal; (diminutive) < zôion animal]