The word "zodiac" originated from the Ancient Greek phrase, "zōidiakòs kýklos," which meant, "cycle (or circle) of little animals." According to astrologists, the "cycle" of zodiac symbols is made up of three key components:
The actual sign itself
Four elements
Three modalities
Together, your sign, its element and modality are believed to play a vital role in your personality.
The four elements of the zodiac refer to air, earth, fire and water. These elements were initially recognized by Ancient Greek philosopher Empedocles during the fifth century BC. Empedocles said the universe was made up of two opposite forces known as "love" and "strife" that influenced and exerted power over the four elements. These elements, in varying combinations, served to explain the essence of nature and things in our world.