constellation

noun10

1. •
   An arbitrary formation of stars perceived as a figure (especially one from mythology) or pattern, or a division of the sky including it, especially one officially recognized by astronomers; an asterism.

   • Up, up, faire Bride, and call, / Thy starres, from out their severall boxes, take / Thy Rubies, Pearles, and Diamonds forth, and make / Thy selfe a constellation, of them All. — 1631
2. •
   Any of the 88 regions of the sky officially recognized by the International Astronomical Union, including all stars and celestial bodies in the region.
3. •
   A fleet of satellites used for the same purpose.

   • The Iridium satellite constellation provides data and voice information coverage to satellite phones and other communication devices over the entire surface of Earth.
4. •
   (figurative) A configuration or grouping of related things.
5. •
   (figurative) A wide, seemingly unlimited, assortment.

   • These amorous Persons may be, I grant, very much delighted vvhen they first gaze upon a Constellation of fair Ladies, but the Heart commonly pays dear for the Pleasure of the Eye, […] — 1665
6. •
   (figurative) An array of marks or items.

   • He had a constellation of bruises on his side.
   • A constellation of blood had sprayed onto the wall.
7. •
   (figurative) A network of connections between people who are in polyamorous relationships, for example between a person, their partner, and that person's partner.
8. •
   (figurative) Synonym of complex (“a collection of ideas caused by repressed emotions that leads to an abnormal mental condition”).
9. •
   (no longer used) The configuration of planets at a given time (especially a person's birth), as believed to affect events on Earth, or used for determining a horoscope.
10. •
    (no longer used) A person's character or inclinations, supposedly determined by their horoscope.

    • I knovv thy constellation is right apt / For this affayre: […] — 1601