Zodiac \Zo"di*ac\, n. [F. zodiaque (cf. It. zodiaco), fr. L.
   zodiacus, Gr. ? (sc. ?), fr. ?, dim. of zw^,on an animal,
   akin to ? living, ? to live.]
   
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   1. (Astron.)
      (a) An imaginary belt in the heavens, 16[deg] or 18[deg]
          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.
          
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   2. A girdle; a belt. [Poetic & R.]
      
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            By his side,
            As in a glistering zodiac, hung the sword. --Milton.
      
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