Definition of Aquarius

The word "Aquarius" originates from ancient Roman astronomy. The Latin word "aquarius" literally translates to "water-bearer" in English. This name was given to the constellation because of its association with the water-pouring vessel or pitcher, called the urna cotidiana, that was carried by the Roman god of water, Janus. In Roman mythology, Janus (the two-faced god) was believed to have two daughters named Aqua and Averns who became the personification of water and darkness, respectively. The constellation Aquarius, which is located near the celestial equator, was identified with Aqua, the water-bearer daughter of Janus. The name Aquarius has been used to refer to this constellation for centuries, and it appears in various ancient societies' astronomical records, including those of the Babylonians, Greeks, and Chinese. It is one of the twelve zodiac signs in astrology and represents the period between approximately January 20 and February 18. Its symbol, the water-pouring pitcher, is a visual representation of its ancient Roman origins.