Con`stel*la"tion (?), n. [F.
constellation, L. constellatio.] 1.
A cluster or group of fixed stars, or division of the
heavens, designated in most cases by the name of some animal, or
of some mythologial personage, within whose imaginary outline, as
traced upon the heavens, the group is included.
The constellations seem to have been almost
purposely named and delineated to cause as much confusion and
inconvenience as possible.
Sir J. Herschel.
&fist; In each of the constellations now recognized by
astronomers (about 90 in number) the brightest stars, both named
and unnamed, are designated nearly in the order of brilliancy by
the letters of the Greek alphabet; as, α Tauri (Aldebaran)
is the first star of Taurus, γ Orionis (Bellatrix) is the
third star of Orion.
2. An assemblage of splendors or
excellences.
The constellations of genius had already
begun to show itself . . . which was to shed a glory over the
meridian and close of Philip's reign.
Prescott.
3. Fortune; fate; destiny.
[Obs.]
It is constellation, which causeth all that
a man doeth.
Gower.
