Dictionary term
Term
Direct answer
Term: Term, also called bound, is an unequal subdivision of a zodiac sign used in traditional astrology as a form of essential dignity.
Term is a traditional dignity subdivision assigning degree ranges of a sign to planetary rulers.
Term is a traditional dignity subdivision assigning degree ranges of a sign to planetary rulers.
A structural orientation; exact placements depend on the chart or technique being discussed.Quick reference
- Use when
- Use Term when explaining traditional dignity, bounds, horary technique, primary directions, and fine-grained planetary condition.
- Do not use it for
- Do not confuse term with zodiac sign or with ordinary dictionary use of the word term.
- In astrology
- Terms are not equal ten-degree decans. They are unequal degree ranges assigned to planets according to a term table, such as Egyptian or Ptolemaic bounds.
- Reference category
- Astrology
- Related terms
- Zodiac, Dignity, Essential Dignity, Triplicity
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The story behind Term
Terms or bounds are part of traditional essential dignity systems preserved in Hellenistic, medieval, and Renaissance astrology.
Term in spiritual tradition
Spiritually, Term shows how small contexts can still provide support and responsibility.
Why Term matters
Term matters because it refines planetary condition beyond sign rulership and exaltation. A planet may gain modest dignity by being in its own term.
Term at work: an example
A planet without sign rulership may still have some dignity if it is placed within its own term.
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
- Astrology
- Also appears in
- Astrology
- Aliases
- bound, Egyptian term
- Last updated
- 2026-07-15
Check planetary terms
Term in a book is one thing; Term 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.
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Related terms
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Common questions
What is Term?
Term, also called bound, is an unequal subdivision of a zodiac sign used in traditional astrology as a form of essential dignity.
How is Term used in astrology?
Use Term when explaining traditional dignity, bounds, horary technique, primary directions, and fine-grained planetary condition.
What should I avoid when interpreting Term?
Do not confuse term with zodiac sign or with ordinary dictionary use of the word term.
