Cancer Zodiac Sign: Dates, Traits, & Compatibility

Oswaldo Klein Jr. 11 May 2025

Do you ever feel a strong pull toward nurturing and protecting those you love? If you're a Cancer, or even just curious about the zodiac, you'll find that this deeply ingrained empathy is a defining characteristic. The Cancer sign, symbolized by the Crab, is known for its emotional depth, intuition, and unwavering loyalty.

Cancer, the fourth sign of the zodiac, graces the astrological stage from approximately June 22nd to July 22nd. Ruled by the Moon, the celestial body that governs our emotions, intuition, and inner world, Cancerians are profoundly connected to their feelings. In both Western and Hindu astrology (where it's known as Karka), the influence of the Moon is paramount. The very essence of Cancer is intertwined with the lunar cycles, waxing and waning, just as the tides ebb and flow.

Now, lets delve into the essence of Cancer, exploring the depths of this water sign. We'll unpack the energy of the Cancer dates, revealing the strengths and vulnerabilities that shape this unique sign. You'll discover how this nurturing energy plays out in the Cancer personality and how it influences relationships.

Basic Information
Zodiac Sign:	Cancer
Symbol:	The Crab (♋)
Dates:	Approximately June 22 July 22
Ruling Planet:	Moon
Element:	Water
Quality:	Cardinal
Personality & Traits
Strengths:	Intuitive, nurturing, empathetic, loyal, protective, sensitive
Weaknesses:	Moody, clingy, overly sensitive, insecure, pessimistic
Likes:	Home, family, art, swimming, helping loved ones
Dislikes:	Strangers, criticism, revealing personal information, being alone
Best Matches:	Scorpio, Pisces, Taurus, Virgo
Worst Matches:	Aries, Gemini, Sagittarius, Aquarius
Career & Professional
Career Paths:	Nurse, Social worker, Teacher, Counselor, Chef, Interior Designer, Artist
Work Style:	Dedicated, empathetic, and seeks a nurturing work environment, tends to avoid conflict.
Reference
Website:	Astrology.com

The ancient Babylonians, who laid the foundation for Western astrology, recognized the significance of the constellations and how they relate to our lives. The Hellenistic culture further refined these practices. Each sign was named after a constellation the sun annually moved through. Cancer's connection to the Crab, a symbol of protection and resilience, is rooted in Greek mythology, representing the crab that challenged Heracles. In Renaissance astrology, lunar goddesses like Luna/Diana were linked to Cancer, highlighting the sign's connection to the moon.

Cancerians, above all else, value their family and close relationships. They are the nurturers of the zodiac, always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a comforting shoulder. Their intuitive nature allows them to sense the needs of others, making them exceptional friends and partners. Consider that Cancer often seeks emotional support from their loved ones, mirroring the way they support those around them.

The Cancer individual's intuition is a powerful asset. They possess a keen sense of emotional intelligence, allowing them to navigate complex social situations with grace and understanding. They are known to be strong empathizers who create outstanding and lifelong friendships.

This sign is fourth on the astrological wheel, positioned between Gemini and Leo. Cancerians often stand in stark contrast to their more independent neighbors. They thrive on creating a sense of home, a haven where they can feel safe and secure. They derive great joy from spending quality time with family and friends because they are easily afflicted by loneliness.

The zodiac is traditionally considered to consist of twelve signs, but the constellations extend beyond this. Ophiuchus, often called the 13th sign of the zodiac, lies across the ecliptic. However, it's important to remember that these are astrological signs and should not be confused with constellations.

In the context of the Sims 2 video game, a Cancer personality could be produced by manipulating the personality points to have either all 0 or all 10 points in each area using the "boolprop testingcheatsenabled true" cheat.

Each of the twelve signs has a unique energy that expresses itself in various ways. You are likely most familiar with your sun sign, which can provide insight into how your personality and character are expressed. A Cancer sun is typically known for being sensitive and supportive.

The dates for the zodiac signs are determined by the sun's annual transit through the constellations. For Cancer, this period usually falls between June 22nd and July 22nd. Remember that these dates can vary slightly from year to year.

Cancer's symbol, the crab, signifies its protective nature and the tendency to retreat into its shell when feeling vulnerable. Cancer's sensitivity can be perceived as both a strength and a weakness. While it allows for deep emotional connections, it can also lead to mood swings and a heightened sensitivity to criticism.

The practice of astrology has roots in ancient times. Over time, the different branches emerged. Genethlialogy, the study of natal charts based on the planetary positions at birth, was the most common. Catarchic astrology looked at the best times to begin activities, Interrogational astrology sought answers to questions, and general astrology applied to broader societal trends.

The compatible signs like Scorpio, Pisces, Taurus, and Virgo complement Cancer's empathetic and nurturing nature, creating harmonious and understanding relationships. On the other hand, signs such as Aries, Gemini, Sagittarius, and Aquarius often clash with Cancer's emotional needs. They may find each other to be less compatible because of their differing approaches to life and relationships.

This detailed look at the sign of Cancer allows you to see its unique traits, offering a clear picture of the Cancerian nature. Whether you are a Cancer yourself, or are just curious about the astrological world, understanding the sign can give you insight. Cancer's sensitivity and loyalty make them some of the most caring people in the zodiac. This sign's heart is always working for those they love, which sets them apart from the rest of the zodiac.

And, what are some of the Cancers deepest secrets? The sign is generally known for the nurturing crab, the people who appreciate the comfort of home, and family time. But beyond these traits, what makes a Cancer tick? This is the key question that helps unlock the secrets that lie beneath the surface.

The western zodiac has its roots in Babylonian astrology, with later influences from the Hellenistic culture. The concept involves a specific time of the year which has been linked to specific constellations as the sun crosses the sky annually. The moon is the patron planet for people who were born from June 21st to July 22nd.

In essence, regardless of your zodiac sign, you can perceive how the energy of each season applies to you and everyone around you! As we see, Cancer zodiac signs strongly connect to their feelings and emotions and are strong empathizers that make outstanding lifelong friends.

The Crab's story provides a deep understanding of Cancer's character. You have learned more about the star sign, its characteristics, and how to explore Cancerian nature.