Zodiac (?), n. [F. zodiaque (cf. It. zodiaco), fr. L. zodiacus, Gr. &unr_; (sc. &unr_;), fr. &unr_;, dim. of zw^,on an animal, akin to &unr_; living, &unr_; to live.][1913 Webster]
1. (Astron.) (a) An imaginary belt in the heavens, 16° or 18° broad, in the middle of which is the ecliptic, or sun's path. It comprises the twelve constellations, which one constituted, and from which were named, the twelve signs of the zodiac. (b) A figure representing the signs, symbols, and constellations of the zodiac.[1913 Webster]
2. A girdle; a belt. [Poetic & R.][1913 Webster]
By his side,As in a glistering zodiac, hung the sword.