Con`stel*la"tion (?), n.
[F. constellation,
L. constellatio.]
1. A cluster or
group of fixed stars, or division of the heavens, designated in most cases by the name of some animal, or of some
mythologial personage, within whose imaginary outline, as traced upon the heavens, the group is included.
The constellations seem to have been
almost purposely named
and delineated to cause as much
confusion and inconvenience as possible.
Sir J. Herschel.
&fist; In each of the
constellations now recognized by
astronomers (about 90 in number) the brightest stars, both named and unnamed, are designated nearly in the order
of brilliancy by the letters of
the Greek alphabet; as, α Tauri (Aldebaran) is the first
star of Taurus, γ Orionis
(Bellatrix) is the third star of
Orion.
2. An assemblage of splendors or excellences.
The constellations of genius had
already begun to show itself . . . which was to shed a glory over
the meridian and close of
Philip's reign.
Prescott.
3. Fortune; fate; destiny. [Obs.]
It is constellation, which
causeth all that a man doeth.
Gower.
Hear it pronounced