What Exactly Are the Zodiac Sign Elements? Astrologers Share What Drives Each Sign

While people all over the world have used elements to classify behavioral tendencies for thousands of years—consider the system of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which includes water, fire, Earth, metal, and wood—several Greek philosophers are credited with pioneering the four-element system used in astrology including Empedocles and Plato, says astrologer Stephanie Gailing, author of The Complete Guide to Astrological Self-Care.

Around that period of time, a few centuries BCE, the elements also made an appearance in Hippocratic medicine (a system pioneered by the Greek physician Hippocrates), for being reflective of a person’s general constitution. “Fire is dry and hot, air is wet and hot, Earth is dry and cold, and water is wet and cold,” Gailing says. “This then translated to the four temperaments: fire is choleric, air is sanguine, Earth is melancholic, and water is phlegmatic.”

“Fire is dry and hot, air is wet and hot, Earth is dry and cold, and water is wet and cold.”—Stephanie Gailing, astrologer

The element of the zodiac signs is one of the classifications that they fall under. Another to consider are their individual corresponding houses and their astrological modality (or quadruplicities), showing how the signs exert themselves in their environment. The zodiac’s elements (aka triplicities) are another one of these classifications and color the motivations of the signs.

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If you want to know yourself, or a partner better, its' worth looking into the elements of the zodiac signs. Below, learn more about what the elements represent, how they’re interpreted, and the classic traits of each of them, per astrologers.

What do elements mean in astrology?

If you were to look at the zodiac signs on the wheel, you’d notice that every third sign belongs to the same element. Each astrological element is as followers: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius are fire signs; Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn are Earth signs; Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius are air signs; and Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces are water signs.

Essentially, your astrological element can show you whether you’re inclined to act physically, intellectually, materially, or emotionally. “Elements represent the foundational energies and qualities that shape our temperament and character traits,” explains Ryan Marquardt, an astrologer and co-founder of the professional astrology calendar, Bizmos. “They provide a foundational understanding of how individuals interact with the world and each other based on their elemental nature.”

“Elements represent the foundational energies and qualities that shape our temperament and character traits.”—Ryan Marquardt, astrologer

We can then extrapolate one step further from those terms to modern astrological interpretations, with the following classic tendencies of the different elements: Fire is often connected to extroversion, independence, and radiance; air is linked to communication and social energy; Earth is reflected in responsibility and practicality; and water is associated with emotional and ever-changing energy, says Gailing.

That’s nice, but how are the elements interpreted in someone’s zodiac sign or natal chart?

How modern astrologers interpret zodiac sign's elements

Just as your astrological sun sign doesn’t determine your entire personality, the particular element of that sign doesn’t have full sway over your temperament, either (and, not to mention, your zodiac sign compatibility). As Gailing points out, many components of your overall natal chart—and the various elements they reflect—can play into your style or nature. "For example, someone could have several planets in both air and water signs, for example, and in that case, could reflect a blend of both temperaments," she says.

The traits associated with the elements illustrate all sorts of aspects of your personality, such as with whom you might be most compatible and their location within your chart based on the signs and planets in different realms affect your horoscopes in various ways—for example, what each new astrological season brings or how lucky you are.

"Someone could have several planets in both air and water signs, for example, and in that case, could reflect a blend of both temperaments."—Stephanie Gailing, astrologer

That said, if you have many planets in one element, you may be more likely to express that temperament and way of being to its fullest extent, says Gailing. “For example, if several of the planets and pivotal points—like the ascendant—in your chart are in fire signs, you’re likely very spirited, catalyzed by intuition, and move fast or prefer to be in motion.”

While all of that energy framed in one element could certainly be a strength, the overemphasis could also mean you’re less likely to express qualities associated with other elements. So, if you’re someone who is ultra-fiery in terms of planetary placements, you may be exceptionally instinctive but not have the detachment necessary to readily look before you leap, says Gailing.

By contrast, if you have each of the different elements reflected across planets in your chart in different astrological houses, your disposition likely channels all the different ways of being—which, of course, could be a strength in some situations and a challenge in others. Keep in mind that these zodiac stereotypes aren’t the entire story of someone’s personality, but learning more about the key attributes of each element is a fun way to gain a little more insight into yourself.

Below, find a summary of how each element is typically interpreted and a bit about how they go about their lives.

The fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)

Aries (March 21 to April 19)

The first, and most eager, zodiac sign, Aries, is forthcoming with their intentions. Their bold approach motivates them to try new things, despite how frightening—little thought out—they might be. “Aries is pioneering, independent, and impulsive,” explains Marquardt.

Leo (July 23 to August 22)

The hunger for life and pleasure can’t be understated, or satisfied, with Leo. “Leo is confident, generous, and creative,” Marquardt explains. Their warmth and courageous hearts lead them to see the world in a hedonistic and beautiful light.

Sagittarius (November 22 to December 21)

Sagittarius is always seeking bigger and better things, within and outside of themselves. They find beauty in the complexity of it all, yearning for the expansion of knowledge and meaning. As Marquardt puts it: “Sagittarius is adventurous, philosophical, and optimistic.”

What fire signs value: This element is dynamic, enthusiastic, and passionate, says Gailing. People who reflect it tend to appreciate movement and spontaneity, along with accessing their imagination for creative problem-solving. And they’re frequently in search of action and adventure and tend to push back against limitations. Fire is an element associated with transformation and change, so they appreciate those who aren’t afraid to make a move and aren’t afraid.

Which planets are associated with fire signs? While there aren’t specific planets associated with each element, some are the ruling planets of the fire signs. Jupiter is Sagittarius’ ruling planet, Mars influences Aries characteristics, and Leo is governed by the sun.

How to win a fire sign over: The best way to win a fire sign over is to “be excited and initiate things,” says Gailing. This doesn’t mean all fire signs are adventure seekers or that you necessarily have to invite them to go bungee jumping, but an inclination to create things and prevent boredom helps.

What fire signs are like in love and friendship: Gailing says the fire signs “want things to be really hot and steamy, and [they] want to feel that inner passion and flame.” They want romantic partners who are adventurous, passionate, and enthusiastic—they want to be inspired by whomever they’re with. In terms of friendship, they don’t like to be bored and like adventure, excitement, and enthusiasm.

How fire signs present at work: At work, Gailing says fire signs want newness and action—they don’t want to be bored. They’re eager and enthusiastic to charge into a new endeavor. “They want things to be busy, and they don't want to work on something forever,” she says.

The air signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius)

Gemini (May 21 to June 20)

Geminis find motivation through inquisition of the world around them. They seek understanding through conversation. Among the air sign traits, “Gemini is curious, adaptable, and communicative,” explains Marquardt.

Libra (September 23 to October 22)

When it comes to air sign characteristics, Marquardt says “Libra is charming, diplomatic, and cooperative.” They seek mutuality with those they interact with. Libra is motivated by their social sphere and nurtures their relationships.

Aquarius (January 20 to February 18)

Camaraderie and equality are the motivations of Aquarius. The air sign qualities expressed potently in Aquarius are being “Progressive, altruistic, and unconventional,” says Marquardt. They’re a friend to those who may not fit the expectations of the status quo.

What air signs value: Linked to the agile and changeable nature of thoughts and observation, air signs are typically cerebral and intellect-driven. People who fall into this camp are often witty and thoughtful, while also prone to over-thinking. And they’re generally sociable creatures who draw energy from communicating and forming alliances with others, says Gailing. They value intellectual curiosity and social connection.

Which planets are associated with air signs? Gemini is ruled by Mercury, Libra is ruled by Venus, and Aquarius is ruled by Saturn.

How to win an air sign over: win them over by being curious, asking them questions, and wanting to get to know them and their thoughts and their ideas. Win them over water, being really caring.

What air signs are like in love and friendship: Air signs are very relationship-oriented, says Gailing, so they care about their social circles and networks (even if they’re only a few people)—a partnership that allows them to remain part of these groups is key because they’re social and like to meet people. They also are quite intellectual, so a partner or friend with whom they can discuss and engage in conversation is something they'd like. “They want to be intellectually challenged in a relationship where they can learn from [their partner] or with them,” says Gailing.

How air signs present at work: Generally air signs are great communicators, so they tend to like collaborative work environments where they can bounce ideas off their colleagues. They may be the ones to arrange meetings and focus groups to facilitate discussions and idea exchanges, says Gailing.

The Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn)

Taurus (April 20 to May 20)

Internalizing is Taurus’ specialty, as they seek comfort within themselves and those they feel secure in sharing with. Of the Earth sign traits, “Taurus is sensual, loyal, and reliable,” says Marquardt. You can depend on the Taurus to keep consistent with unwavering faith that things will work out for them.

Virgo (August 23 to September 22)

Known for their altruistic approach to life, Virgos are predisposed to being extra grounded; an emblem they wear with pride. According to Marquardt, “Virgo is practical, critical, and detail-oriented.” They aren’t concerned with the bigger picture of something, rather than the glimmer of moments in between.

Capricorn (December 22 to January 19)

Capricorn’s pragmatism fuels their maturity, which motivates them to operate objectively. “Capricorn is ambitious, disciplined, and authoritative,” Marquardt explains. Their focus allows them to remain focused deeply on their goals and aspirations.

What Earth signs value: Grounded, solid, and practical, Earth energy relates to the world on a deep and sensual level, says Gailing. People with this element in their chart are often resistant to change, appreciating routines and rituals instead. They also tend to seek out material comforts and success and place a high premium on dependability and stability.

Which planets are associated with Earth signs? Taurus is ruled by Venus, Virgo’s ruling planet is Mercury, and Saturn is Capricorn’s planetary ruler.

How to win an Earth sign over: The best way to win an Earth sign over is to be “practical and pragmatic,” says Gailing, and to also let them indulge in the sensual, fun side of themselves. “Offer them a bouquet of roses or tickets to a Beyonce concert, or what have you,” advises Gailing.

What Earth signs are like in love and friendship: Earth in their relationships, they would probably want them to be a container for practicality and sensuality. That's really the importance of that reliability. sense of security and that sense of your grounded needs, and we can co-create things together. There's a sense of, again, safety, security, comfort, your mundane needs.

How Earth signs present at work: These are patient, hard workers who will put in consistent, meticulous effort over time. They’re often the reality check, and care a lot about logistical details. “Earth signs are like, ‘Do we have the resources and do we have the budget for this?’” says Gailing.

The water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)

Cancer (June 21 to July 22)

Emotionally motivated Cancer is concerned with their internal needs as well as others. The water sign traits most potent in Cancer, per Marquardt, “Is nurturing, protective, and intuitive.” Cancers can be trusted to tend to those around them, leading with empathy.

Scorpio (October 23 to November 21)

Scorpios are deep and are motivated by the need for intense connection. According to Marquardt, “Scorpio is determined, mysterious, and transformative. They seek emotional safety and take their time getting there.

Pisces (February 19 to March 20)

Pisces are inclined to their idyllic reality, feeling rejuvenated when their colorful imaginations come to fruition. When it comes to water sign traits, “Pisces is compassionate, imaginative, and spiritual,” Marquardt explains. Their optimism carries their hearts wherever they go.

What water signs value: Fluidity and freedom are linked closely with this element. Water-y people embrace nonlinear understanding and are typically sensitive and receptive to changes in their environments, says Gailing. They look for depth and emotional fulfillment above all, and often through creative or artistic means.

Which planets are associated with water signs? Pisces is ruled by Venus, Cancer is governed by the moon, and Scorpio is ruled by Pluto.

How to win a water sign over: Showing exactly how much you care and honoring a water sign’s emotions is the way into their heart. Galing says an ability to tap into your own feelings and having a flowing and active imagination helps.

What water signs are like in love and friendship: Water signs are the ones to form and seek out deep emotional connections, and really desire their emotions to be cherished. “I would say it’s really important for their partner to be sensitive to their needs and also sensitive to the world,” says Gailing. “If you are a water sign and your partner views the world with rigidity and doesn’t see the magic in life, you probably wouldn’t like that.” They value the same in their friends, too.

How water signs present at work: Water signs bring a distinct creativity and imagination to their work and are able to use their emotional depths “They not just care about their colleagues, but they're also going to care about what they’re creating,” explains Gailing. “It’s like, ‘Is it good for people and will it make them feel good?’”