sextile: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical (Astrology/Astronomy); Esoteric
Quick answer
What does “sextile” mean?
An angular distance of 60 degrees between two celestial bodies in astrology or astronomy, considered a favourable aspect.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An angular distance of 60 degrees between two celestial bodies in astrology or astronomy, considered a favourable aspect.
Pertaining to a specific 60-degree angle relationship between two points, used most prominently in astrological contexts to denote harmony and ease of energy flow.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant regional differences in meaning or usage.
Connotations
Carries the same specific technical and esoteric connotations in all regions.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both varieties; its use is confined to niche specialist communities.
Grammar
How to Use “sextile” in a Sentence
[Planet A] is in sextile with [Planet B]There is a sextile between [Planet A] and [Planet B]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “sextile” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The sextile connection between Mercury and Venus suggests clear communication in relationships.
American English
- A sextile aspect from Jupiter often indicates an easy opportunity for growth.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in specific academic papers on the history of astrology or astronomy; otherwise absent.
Everyday
Virtually never used in general conversation.
Technical
The primary context. Standard term in astrological charts, forecasts, and analyses to indicate a specific, favourable geometric relationship.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “sextile”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “sextile”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sextile”
- Confusing 'sextile' with 'sextant' (a navigational instrument).
- Using it as a general synonym for 'harmony' outside its technical context.
- Misspelling as 'textile' or 'sexile'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, traditionally it is considered a favourable or 'soft' aspect, indicating harmony, opportunity, and easy flow of energy between the planets involved.
Both are considered harmonious aspects. A sextile is a 60-degree angle, while a trine is a 120-degree angle. A trine is often seen as a stronger, more innate harmony, while a sextile may require some conscious effort to activate its potential.
No, it is not standard usage. The term is used almost exclusively as a noun ('a sextile') or an adjective ('a sextile aspect'). You would say planets 'are in sextile' or 'form a sextile'.
Yes, etymologically it comes from Latin 'sextilis' meaning 'of the sixth'. A sextile divides the 360-degree circle into six parts (360/6=60).
An angular distance of 60 degrees between two celestial bodies in astrology or astronomy, considered a favourable aspect.
Sextile is usually technical (astrology/astronomy); esoteric in register.
Sextile: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsɛk.staɪl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsɛk.stəl/ /ˈsɛkˌstaɪl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a circle divided into six equal parts (hexagon) – a sextile is one of those six slices, which is 60 degrees. SEXtile = SIXth part.
Conceptual Metaphor
HARMONY IS GEOMETRIC ALIGNMENT; OPPORTUNITY IS A SPECIFIC ANGLE.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'sextile' primarily used?