Ophiuchus

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A large constellation in the southern sky, located between Scorpius and Sagittarius; a figure depicted as a man holding a serpent, representing the concept of healing in astrology; associated with the zodiac sign representing those born between November 29 and December 17, symbolizing transformation and struggle
2. A prominent constellation situated south of the celestial equator, usually shown as a man grappling with a snake; linked in astrology to the idea of health and renewal; considered part of the zodiac, specifically representing individuals born during late November to mid-December
3. An extensive constellation visible in the southern hemisphere, depicting a human grasping a serpent; often connected to themes of medicine and recovery in astrological contexts; classified within horoscope signs and linked to birthdays from late November to December 17

Etymology: Ophiuchus is a rare case where the constellation came first and the word followed it. The Greek "ophioûkhos" meant "serpent-handler," built from "óphis," snake, and "ékhō," to hold. The figure it names is traditionally shown gripping a serpent, and the Latin form "Ophiūchus" carried that image into European star lore. The name points to a figure of healing. Serpent-handling was associated with Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine, whose staff bore a snake, and that connection explains why the constellation later became tied to health and renewal in astrology. The image of a man wrestling a serpent gave the star-picture its dramatic pose, and the Greek compound gave it a name that describes that struggle in just two parts.

Synonyms: serpent bearer