Earth · Cardinal

♑ Capricorn

Capricorn is traditionally described as disciplined, strategic, responsible.

Standard dates: December 22–January 19Ruler: SaturnSymbol: The Sea-Goat
Quick answer: Capricorn is a earth sign with a cardinal modality. In tropical astrology, its standard date range is December 22–January 19.
Modality

Cardinal

Learn about modalities

Traditional ruler

Saturn

What ruling planet means

Traditional meaning

Astrological traditions associate Capricorn with qualities such as disciplined, strategic, responsible. These are interpretive themes rather than scientifically established personality measurements.

Capricorn in the zodiac cycle

Capricorn occupies one of twelve equal sections in the tropical zodiac. Its combination of the earth element and cardinal modality gives it a distinct structural role within the system.

People born near the cusp

The commonly printed range—December 22–January 19—is a convenient calendar guide. The exact moment the Sun enters a sign varies slightly by year and time zone, so people born on a transition date may need a calculated birth chart.

Capricorn sign vs. Capricorn constellation

The astrological sign is a fixed 30-degree segment of the zodiac. The astronomical constellation is an uneven region of the sky. They share historical names but are not interchangeable.

Common questions

What element is Capricorn?

Capricorn belongs to the Earth element.

What modality is Capricorn?

Capricorn is a Cardinal sign.

What dates are Capricorn?

The standard tropical range is December 22–January 19.

Related reading

All zodiac dates · Elements · Modalities · Signs vs. constellations

Last reviewed August 2, 2026. This page describes astrological traditions and clearly separates them from astronomy.