Dictionary term
New Moon
Direct answer
New Moon is the lunar phase when the Moon is aligned with the Sun and the side facing Earth is dark or barely visible.
New Moon begins the lunar cycle and symbolizes seed, darkness, reset, and intention.
New Moon begins the lunar cycle and symbolizes seed, darkness, reset, and intention.
The orbit map distinguishes physical bodies, calculated points, and symbolic cycles where possible.Quick reference
- Use when
- Use New Moon timing for setting intentions, planting quiet plans, beginning cycles, and noticing which house of the chart is being seeded.
- Do not use it for
- Do not demand instant results from a New Moon.
- In astrology
- A New Moon is a Sun-Moon conjunction. If it occurs near the lunar nodes, it may become a solar eclipse.
- Reference category
- Transits & Cycles
- Related terms
- Birth Chart, Zodiac, Transit
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The story behind New Moon
Lunar calendars across many cultures have used the New Moon to mark months, rituals, and renewed timing.
New Moon in spiritual tradition
Spiritually, New Moon asks what can begin quietly before the world sees it.
Why New Moon matters
New Moon matters because it marks the start of a lunar month and a symbolic moment for beginnings before visibility.
New Moon at work: an example
A New Moon in the Second House can seed themes around money, values, confidence, and personal resources.
Sources and editorial method
This concise reference separates established definitions from historical, symbolic, or interpretive claims. Entries without external references are presented as editorial summaries rather than primary-source scholarship.
- Source
- The Great Almanac Dictionary
- Category
- Transits & Cycles
- Also appears in
- Transits & Cycles
- Aliases
- None listed
- Last updated
- 2026-07-15
Set your lunar intention
New Moon in a book is one thing; New Moon in your own birth chart is your life. The Oracle casts your real chart and tells you what it means for your love, your work, and your year ahead, in conversation, free.
Speak with the OracleThe Cosmic Codex reads a whole year of transits against your own chart, New Moon included where it touches your love, your work, your timing. Open the Cosmic Codex
Related terms
More in Transits & Cycles
- Planetary Retrograde
- Retrograde Shadow
- Station Direct
- Transit Peak
- Waning Crescent
- Combustion
- Ingress
- Lunar Trigger
Common questions
What is New Moon?
New Moon is the lunar phase when the Moon is aligned with the Sun and the side facing Earth is dark or barely visible.
How is New Moon used in timing work?
Use New Moon timing for setting intentions, planting quiet plans, beginning cycles, and noticing which house of the chart is being seeded.
What should I avoid when interpreting New Moon?
Do not demand instant results from a New Moon. Seeds start in darkness before they show.
