Masculine and Feminine

Definition

Masculine and Feminine are traditional terms for the two polarities assigned to zodiac signs. Masculine signs are Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius, and Aquarius; feminine signs are Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn, and Pisces. These classifications describe contrasting modes of expression, not biological sex, gender identity, or personal worth.

Astrological Meaning

Masculine signs are commonly interpreted as outward-moving, active, expressive, or responsive through direct engagement. They comprise the fire and air elements. Feminine signs are often viewed as inward-moving, receptive, reflective, or responsive through containment and assimilation. They comprise the earth and water elements. In a natal chart, astrologers may compare how many planets occupy each polarity, while also considering the Sun, Moon, Ascendant, chart ruler, houses, and aspects. A predominance of one polarity suggests an emphasis rather than a fixed personality type. A fairly even distribution may indicate access to both approaches, although the condition and placement of individual planets remain important.

Why It Matters

Polarity offers a quick way to understand how chart energies may be directed and processed. It can reveal whether a person tends to initiate externally, develop experience internally, or alternate between these styles. The concept is most useful when treated symbolically and alongside elements and modalities. Modern astrologers may use terms such as active and receptive or positive and negative to avoid confusing astrological polarity with gender stereotypes.

Related Encyclopedia Entries

• Traditional Astrology
• Astrological Terminology
• Natal Chart