Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkæprɪkɔːrn/

Definitions

• The tenth sign of the zodiac, represented by a goat with the tail of a fish (♑), traditionally associated with those born between December 22 and January 19.
• A person born under the sign of Capricorn, considered to be practical, ambitious, and disciplined.
• A constellation in the Southern Hemisphere, located between Sagittarius and Aquarius.

Usage Examples

• "She is a Capricorn, known for her practicality and strong sense of responsibility."
• "The Capricorn constellation can be seen in the night sky during the winter months."
• "As a Capricorn, he tends to take a methodical approach to problem-solving."

Etymology

The word "Capricorn" comes from the Latin word "Capricorni," which is a combination of "capra" (goat) and "cornu" (horn). The zodiac sign of Capricorn is symbolized by a goat with the tail of a fish, representing the earthly and water elements combined. The term has been in use since ancient Roman times and is derived from the early representation of the constellation, which was depicted as a sea-goat.

Synonyms

• Goat (symbolically referring to the zodiac sign)
• Sea-goat (referring to the symbolic creature)

Antonyms

• Opposite zodiac signs such as Cancer (in astrology)
• Flexible (referring to the contrasting traits of Capricorn's usual rigidity)

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, it is pronounced /ˈkæprɪkɔːrn/ with the emphasis on the first syllable.
• In British English, the pronunciation may be slightly more clipped: /ˈkæprɪkɔːn/.

Historical Usage

Capricorn has been part of human cultural history since ancient Babylonian astronomy, where it was associated with a figure called the "Sea-Goat." The constellation was used in early astrology to predict the characteristics of individuals born under this sign. The association with the zodiac was formalized by the Greeks, and the Roman adoption of the sign further cemented its significance. Over the centuries, Capricorn has been used to symbolize various traits such as practicality, discipline, and ambition.

Cultural Nuances

In astrology, Capricorn is often considered one of the more reserved and serious signs, known for its practicality and responsibility. However, people born under this sign are also seen as deeply loyal, with a strong sense of duty. In different cultures, Capricorns are revered for their ability to persevere and succeed through hard work, while in others, they are seen as overly cautious or even rigid in their approach to life. In popular culture, the image of the "sea-goat" has become an emblem of the balance between determination and adaptability.

More Information

Capricorn, the tenth sign of the zodiac, is ruled by Saturn, the planet of structure, discipline, and responsibility. People born under this sign are thought to be driven, pragmatic, and goal-oriented, often excelling in careers that require focus and long-term planning. Capricorn's symbol, the sea-goat, reflects both its earthy ambition and its adaptability to water, symbolizing the dual nature of this sign's drive to succeed while remaining emotionally resilient. In astrology, Capricorn is often seen as the sign of the "master planner" due to its inherent need for order and its ability to work steadily toward long-term goals.