Virgo is one of the twelve constellations of the zodiac, a band of star patterns that ancient astronomers noticed the sun, moon, and planets pass through during the year. The constellation's name comes from the Latin word for “virgin” or “maiden,” and star maps traditionally show it as a young woman holding a shaft of wheat, representing the harvest season.

In astronomy, Virgo is the second-largest constellation in the night sky. You can spot it best in the spring months if you're in the Northern Hemisphere. Its brightest star, Spica, shines with a bluish-white light.

In astrology (the ancient practice of linking star positions to personality traits and life events), people born between approximately August 23 and September 22 are called Virgos. Astrology isn't scientific, meaning it can't predict or explain things the way chemistry or physics can, but many people still enjoy reading about their zodiac signs for fun. Astrology often describes Virgos as detail-oriented, organized, and helpful.

The word is pronounced VUR-goh. When talking about multiple people with this zodiac sign, you might say “Virgos” (VUR-gohz), like saying “She and her brother are both Virgos.”