ascendente

Ascendente, also known as the ascendant, is an astrological term referring to the zodiac sign or degree that was rising on the eastern horizon at the time of a person’s birth. It serves as the cusp of the first house in a natal chart, representing the individual’s outward personality, physical appearance, and initial impressions on others. Unlike the sun sign, which indicates the position of the sun at birth, the ascendant reflects how a person presents themselves to the world.

In astrology, the ascendant influences traits such as behavior, social interactions, and even the first impression one makes. It is often associated with the element of the sign it governs—fire, earth, air, or water—and can indicate characteristics like confidence (fire), practicality (earth), communication (air), or emotional depth (water). Some astrologers also consider the ascendant’s strength, strength of the sun, and the planets in the first house to refine its interpretation.

The ascendant plays a role in compatibility studies, as differences between two people’s ascendants can influence how they interact. For example, a person with a strong ascendant in a water sign might appear more intuitive and sensitive, while one with an air ascendant may seem more analytical and expressive. While astrology is not scientifically validated, many practitioners use the ascendant to gain insights into personality dynamics and life experiences.