libra: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, technical, informal (when discussing astrology).
Quick answer
What does “libra” mean?
The seventh sign of the zodiac, represented by scales and associated with balance, justice, and partnership.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The seventh sign of the zodiac, represented by scales and associated with balance, justice, and partnership.
An individual born under the Libra zodiac sign, roughly between September 23 and October 22. Historically, an ancient Roman unit of weight equivalent to about 327 grams.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in core meaning. The pronunciation differs as per IPA.
Connotations
In both, primarily astrological. The historical weight sense is equally rare and academic.
Frequency
Equally low frequency, used primarily in specific contexts (horoscopes, astrology, history).
Grammar
How to Use “libra” in a Sentence
[Subject] is a Libra.She was born under Libra.The planet Venus rules Libra.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “libra” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- She has a very Libran approach to diplomacy.
American English
- His Libran nature makes him avoid conflict.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used, except potentially in branding (e.g., financial services named 'Libra').
Academic
Used in historical texts referring to the Roman unit of weight. In cultural studies, refers to the zodiac symbol.
Everyday
Almost exclusively in the context of horoscopes, astrology, and birth signs.
Technical
In astronomy/astrology, to denote the constellation and zodiac sign. In metrology, a historical weight unit.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “libra”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “libra”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “libra”
- Misspelling as 'Lebra' or 'Lybra'. Confusing it with 'Libre' (Spanish/French for 'free'). Using it as a general synonym for 'balance' outside astrological context.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, when referring to the zodiac sign or constellation. It is a proper noun. The historical weight unit is often not capitalized.
The symbol is ♎, representing the scales of balance.
Yes, the adjectival form is 'Libran' (less commonly 'Libran' or 'Libran'). Example: 'Libran qualities'.
Indirectly. It was named to evoke ideas of balance and global currency, drawing from the symbolism of the scales, but it is a distinct proper noun.
The seventh sign of the zodiac, represented by scales and associated with balance, justice, and partnership.
Libra is usually formal, technical, informal (when discussing astrology). in register.
Libra: in British English it is pronounced /ˈliː.brə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈliː.brə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To be born under Libra”
- “To have a Libran balance”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the 'scales of justice' – LIBRA seeks balance and fairness.
Conceptual Metaphor
BALANCE IS JUSTICE, PARTNERSHIP IS HARMONY.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the word 'libra' LEAST likely be used?