Libra

/lee"breuh, luy"-/, n., gen. Librae /-bruy, -bree/ for 1.

1. Astron. the Balance, a zodiacal constellation between Virgo and Serpens.

2. Astrol.

a. the seventh sign of the zodiac: the cardinal air sign. See illus. under zodiac.

b. Also, Libran. a person born under this sign, usually between September 23rd and October 22nd.

[1350-1400; ME < L libra lit., pair of scales, LIBRA¹]

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(Latin: "Scales") In astronomy, the constellation lying between Scorpio and Virgo; in astrology, the seventh sign of the zodiac, governing approximately the period September 22–October 23.

Its symbol is either a woman holding a balance scale or the scale alone. The woman is sometimes identified with Astraea, the Roman goddess of justice.

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▪ constellation

 (Latin: “Balance”), in astronomy, zodiacal constellation lying between Scorpius and Virgo, at about 15 hours 30 minutes right ascension (the coordinate on the celestial sphere analogous to longitude on the Earth) and 15° south declination (angular distance south of the celestial equator). Its stars are faint.

      In astrology, Libra is the seventh sign of the zodiac, considered as governing the period from about September 22 to October 23. It is represented by a woman (sometimes identified with Astraea, the Roman goddess of justice), holding a balance scale or by the balance alone.

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