Birth Charts 101: Understanding the Planets and Their Meanings
The planets with short orbits move across the zodiac frequently and where they are in a natal chart is specific to an individual's date and time ...
governs Aquarius
Uranus is unusual: as Science Museum reports, it’s the first planet discovered by a telescope, the only celestial body named after a Greek deity, and is tilted so far on its axis that it essentially orbits the sun on its side. Fittingly, Uranus symbolizes technology, rebellion, and innovation. This revolutionary planet hates the rules and is always eager to facilitate groundbreaking, dynamic change. Uranus can have surprising effects (after all, the planet loves shock value). It <anchor>governs Aquarius</anchor>, the free-thinking air sign recognized for its eccentricity and nonconformity. Uranus takes approximately seven years to transit each sign and goes retrograde each year for around 150 days. During the planet's retrograde, we are asked to leave the past behind and continue onward with life.
The Personality Traits of an Aquarius, Explained | Allure
All About Aquarius

# The Personality Traits of an Aquarius, Explained

What you should know about this zodiac sign's typical characteristics, weaknesses, and compatibility.

September 1, 2024

an illustrated rendition of Aquarius showing figure with water jug.

Daniel Egneus

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As you can imagine, I encounter a lot of misconceptions as a professional astrologer — not just regarding my career as a stargazer, but also relating to the technical aspects of astrology. One of the most ubiquitous, albeit innocuous, errors is that Aquarius (January 20 - February 18) is a water sign. I could certainly understand the confusion here—especially with "aqua" as the prefix—but once you get to know this zodiac sign, it becomes strikingly clear that Aquarius is an air sign. As the eleventh and penultimate sign of the zodiac, Aquarius is actually the final air sign, which means it deals with air-related concepts (we'll get more into that momentarily) from a macro-perspective. Of all the zodiac signs, Aquarius is undoubtedly the most innovative, progressive, rebellious, and humanitarian. But while Aquarius can often be found planning a revolution or proudly flaunting their funky fashion sensibility, they also have an often overlooked sensitive side that requires appreciation, support, and love.

Air energy is all about the mind. Intellectual, curious, and deeply social, the air signs (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius) are passionate about interpersonal dynamics. As the last air sign in the zodiac, however, Aquarius takes these concepts to a whole other level. Aquarius is represented by the water bearer (hence the "aqua"), the mystical healer who bestows water, or life, upon the land. Represented by the Star card in tarot, Aquarius can be visualized as a larger-than-life, mythical being with one foot firmly planted on the soil (representing a sense of being grounded) and one positioned in the water. Aquarius is holding a vase, which pours new streams of inspiration to cultivate longevity, healing, and hope. Here, it's important to remember that Aquarius is removed from this process—from this vantage, we can see that Aquarius is positioned as an independent entity separate from the life-giving hydration it offers the cracked soil. In this respect, Aquarius exposes its deep connection to community: Rooted in teamwork, collaboration, and the concept of the "greater good," Aquarius is determined to make a powerful difference in the world.

Aquarius is ruled by Uranus, the planet that governs innovation, technology, and surprising events. Uranus perfectly mirrors Aquarius' distinctive attitude, complementing the nontraditional nature of these visionary air signs. Aquarians are big thinkers, but mustn't forget their immediate surroundings. These water bearers can become so focused on implementing widespread reform that they neglect their family and friends, gaining a reputation for being distant in relationships. Aquarians should remember that progress always starts on a micro level and advocate empathy and compassion wherever possible. Keep reading to find out more about Aquarius’ personality traits, weaknesses, and who they're most (and least) compatible with.

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## What are Aquarius known for?

As the humanitarian of the zodiac, this sign has a reputation for being eccentric, unique, and marching to the beat of their own drum—as well as being cold, aloof, and somewhat detached. Here's the thing: Aquarius hates small talk. Aquarius is totally disinterested in petty gossip and, frankly, could care less about people-please niceties. This zodiac sign is committed to creating a large-scale impact from the ground up, which means these revolutionaries are all about macro change. Aquarius aspires to move the needle through radical social progress, so if they seem disinterested, it's likely because the issue at hand isn’t community-focused. Every Aquarian is a rebel at heart: These air signs don't mesh well with authority-figures, let alone any institution that represents tradition and long-standing convention. Free-spirited and eccentric, you can often spot this air sign through their offbeat fashion sensibilities, unusual hobbies, and nonconformist attitude.

## What are Aquarius’ weaknesses?

As a fixed sign, Aquarius definitely has a stubborn streak—when this sign makes up their mind, there's no going back! Aquarius' hardheadedness can get them into trouble from time to time. Once Aquarius is committed to a new system or approach, it's hard for them to look at a situation from a different perspective. This is often considered an Achilles' heel. (In fact, in medical astrology, Aquarius governs the ankles.) Aquarian obstinacy stems from strong, righteous conviction and it's quelled as soon as an Aquarius gets the chance to enact change. Because these water bearers are so deeply motivated by the spirit of egalitarianism, they enjoy teamwork and participating in communities of like-minded individuals.

## Who should Aquarius avoid?

Aquarians need plenty of space and time on their own to reflect, form ideas, and plan their role in the revolution. Ultimately, freedom is of the utmost importance for Aquarians, who view challenges to their independence as power-hungry attempts to control them. To win an Aquarian's trust, don't try to reign in their quirks or keep them from flying their freak flag high—Aquarius thrives on shock value. Traditional earth signs—Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn—might find Aquarius' unpredictable and non-traditional approach unsettling, as they prefer stability and routine. Additionally, sensitive water signs—Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces—could struggle with Aquarius' tendency to keep emotions at arm's length, seeking deeper emotional intimacy than Aquarius typically provides. Although Aquarius can make a relationship work with any zodiac sign, these water bearers must remember that compromise is extremely important: Not everyone is going to care about the same things, but that’s what makes the world a beautiful place!

## Who’s the best match for Aquarius?

Aquarius loves the fearless autonomy of the fire signs (Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius), and the intellectual connection of fellow air sign (Gemini and Libra). But, when it comes to Aquarius compatibility, there's no sign that's totally off-limits. Fundamentally, Aquarius is attracted to fellow revolutionaries— eople who are spirited, passionate, and dedicated to making the world a better place. No matter the zodiac sign, Aquarians are drawn to friends and lovers who aren't afraid to break the rules… or, at the very least, don't mind Aquarius' steadfast commitment to the cause. Because Aquarians are always thinking big-picture, partnership isn't just about an interpersonal dynamic—it’s actually a political statement. Duh.

More on astrology:

Allow astrologer Aliza Faragher to explain which signs yours is most compatible with:



Aliza Kelly is a New York-based astrologer, occultist, and writer. She is the author of The Mixology of Astrology (Adams Media/Simon Schuster), Starring You: A Guided Journey Through Astrology (little bee books), and This Is Your Destiny (Macmillan) and hosts the weekly podcast, Stars Like Us. Her writing... Read more

Astrology Writer

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