aquarius: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Technical (Astrology/Astronomy), Informal (Horoscopes)
Quick answer
What does “aquarius” mean?
The eleventh sign of the zodiac, represented by the Water Bearer.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The eleventh sign of the zodiac, represented by the Water Bearer.
A person born between approximately January 20 and February 18; also refers to the constellation of the same name. In astrology, it is associated with traits like independence, humanitarianism, and innovation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling and pronunciation are consistent.
Connotations
Identical connotations related to astrology and personality traits.
Frequency
Equal frequency in both varieties, tied to the popularity of astrology.
Grammar
How to Use “aquarius” in a Sentence
[Proper Noun] (as subject)a/an [Adjective] AquariusVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “aquarius” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- Her Aquarius nature makes her very forward-thinking.
American English
- He has a very Aquarius approach to problem-solving.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in astronomy (constellation) or cultural studies discussing astrology.
Everyday
Used in the context of horoscopes, birthdays, and personality discussions.
Technical
Precise term in astronomy for the constellation and in astrology for the zodiacal sign.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “aquarius”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “aquarius”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “aquarius”
- Using lowercase ('aquarius') when referring to the sign.
- Misspelling as 'aquarious' or 'aquaris'.
- Confusing it with 'aquatic'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, when referring to the astrological sign or constellation, it is a proper noun and should be capitalized.
Aquarius is an Air sign, despite its symbol being the Water Bearer.
Informally, yes (e.g., 'an Aquarius perspective'), but this is a non-standard, metaphorical extension from astrology and is not found in formal writing.
In the zodiac wheel, Leo is considered the opposite sign to Aquarius.
The eleventh sign of the zodiac, represented by the Water Bearer.
Aquarius is usually formal, technical (astrology/astronomy), informal (horoscopes) in register.
Aquarius: in British English it is pronounced /əˈkweə.ri.əs/, and in American English it is pronounced /əˈkwer.i.əs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'aqua' (water) + 'arius' (like 'arius' in 'aquarium'). An Aquarius is the 'Water Bearer'.
Conceptual Metaphor
HUMAN CHARACTERISTICS ARE ASTROLOGICAL SIGNS (e.g., 'He's such an Aquarius' meaning he is independent and unconventional).
Practice
Quiz
In which field would the term 'Aquarius' be used in its most technical sense?