- Astronomy.
- An arbitrary formation of stars perceived as a figure or design, especially one of 88 recognized groups named after characters from classical mythology and various common animals and objects.
- An area of the celestial sphere occupied by one of the 88 recognized constellations.
- The configuration of planets at the time of one's birth, regarded by astrologers as determining one's character or fate.
- A gathering or an assemblage, especially of prominent persons or things: The symposium was attended by a constellation of artists and writers.
- A set or configuration, as of related items, properties, ideas, or individuals: a constellation of demands ranging from better food to improved health care; a constellation of feelings about the divorce.
[Middle English constellacioun, from Old French constellation, from Late Latin cōnstellātiō, cōnstellātiōn- : Latin com-, com- + Latin stēlla, star.]
constellatory con·stel'la·to'ry (-stĕl'ə-tôr'ē, -tōr'ē) adj.





