cardinal sign

noun

, Astrology.

1. any of the four astrological signs, Aries, Cancer, Libra, or Capricorn, that begin at the equinoxes and solstices, thus marking the beginning of the seasons: characterized by the attribute of strong initiative.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cardinal sign¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Example Sentences

"The question we always ask is, can we exploit microbiota to help our health, for which optimal blood pressure is a cardinal sign. Until now, we have simply said changes in microbiota play a role in elevated blood pressure or hypertension. Those are important findings, but they don't always have an immediately translational application," she said.

From Science Daily

Brain shrinkage is a cardinal sign of dementia and brain damage in general.

From Washington Post

Libra, as a cardinal sign, is somewhat more stable.

From The Verge

Libra, as a cardinal sign, is somewhat more stable.

From The Verge

Yet another cardinal sign of frailty is weight loss.

From New York Times