Capricorn is the tenth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Capricornus. In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the precession of the equinoxes. In astrology, Capricorn is considered an earth sign and is one of four cardinal signs. Like the rest of the earth signs, Capricorn is considered a "negative", feminine sign, which in astrology means it is rather introvert. Capricorn is ruled by the planet Saturn. Being the tenth sign of the zodiac, Capricorn has been associated with the astrological 10th house.

Individuals born when the Sun was in this sign are considered Capricorn individuals. Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun is in Capricorn roughly from December 22 to January 21. Under the sidereal zodiac, it is currently there roughly from January 15 to February 12.

Mythology
Capricorn is associated with the Greek myth of the goat Amalthea, who provided the infant Zeus with milk, or ambrosia in some versions. Zeus placed her in the sky to honor her (Catasterismi). Capricorn is also associated with the god Saturn and the god Aristaeus.

The Babylonian zodiacal sign is called šaxû "ibex." The sun in this month entered the suxûru-fish constellation, called the star of Tashmetum, the wife of Nabu. The goat-fish is known from depictions on Babylonian monuments as a representation of Enki/Ea. Also linked to the Greek God, Pan.

The astrological symbol for Capricorn is said to represent the horns and tail of the goat-fish or sea-goat.

Associated traits
Astrologers assign personality traits to the signs. The following are traits more widely associated with Capricorn. Note that no scientific research thus far has been able to prove such correlation. Many astrologers consider planetary aspects to hold a key influence which may override sign location and thus conceding many exceptions.

• Practical
• Disciplined / methodical / organized
• Prudent / cautious / careful
• Ambitious / focused
• Trustworthy / dependable / reliable
• Serious
• Self-reliant / independent
• Steadfast / persevering / stable
• Persistent / dedicated
• Hard-working
• Rational / reasonable
• Responsible
• Shrewd / wise
• Aloof / businesslike
• Tenacious
• Self-critical
• Traditional / conventional
• Career-oriented
• Authoritative
• Competent
• Strong

Physical traits
Many astrologers believe that each sign of the zodiac has identifiable physical traits. Some find that physically, individuals born under the sign of Capricorn tend to have dark hair, steady eyes, a dark complexion, capable hands, and prominent cheekbones. The body is often tall and angular, with a tendency for the back to bend with age. The eyes are small, dark and beady.

Compatibilities
Capricorn is widely thought to be compatible with same earth element signs, Taurus and Virgo.

There are many variables that determine compatibility in astrology, such as birth dates, birth months, birth years, position of a sign within the Sun, the Moon, Stars, house positions, etc. The signs listed as compatible with Capricorn do not reflect an individual profile or individual reading as interpreted within astrology, but rather reflect a general guideline and reference to compatibility as dictated by variables such as Qualities and Elements within the Zodiac.

Correspondences
The following items are traditionally associated with Capricorn:

• In medical astrology, Capricorn governs the knees and skeleton.
• The Indian equivalent of Capricorn is Makara.
• The Chinese equivalent is thought to be the dependable, methodical Ox, whose lunar month is 6 January - 3 February.
• The corresponding month in the Babylonian calendar is Arax ebêtum, dedicated to Pap-sukkal, the messenger of the gods.