Polarity — Astrology glossary

Polarity is the division of the twelve zodiac signs into two alternating groups, often called positive and negative, or masculine and feminine, though the plainer pairing is active and receptive. The six fire and air signs are active, oriented outward toward expression and engagement, while the six earth and water signs are receptive, oriented inward toward absorption and response. Signs alternate around the zodiac, so each is the opposite polarity to its neighbours. The terms are not value judgements; they describe a basic direction of energy rather than good or bad. In a natal chart, polarity offers a broad first read on whether a person tends toward outward initiative or inward reception, and a strong imbalance is telling. For example, a chart with almost all planets in active signs suggests someone who instinctively engages and expresses, sometimes before pausing to take things in.