Tarot Glossary

Master tarot terminology with clear definitions, examples, and context for essential tarot reading terms and concepts. Perfect for beginners learning the language of tarot.

Quick Reference

Reading Process

Reading Techniques

Cards

Court Card

Cards

The face cards in each tarot suit: Page, Knight, Queen, and King, representing people, personality traits, or approaches to situations.

Reading Process

Querent

Reading Process

The person asking the question or receiving the tarot reading, also called the seeker or client.

Spread

Reading Process

The pattern or layout in which tarot cards are arranged for a reading, with each position having a specific meaning.

Reading Techniques

Reversals

Reading Techniques

Cards that appear upside-down in a reading, often indicating blocked energy, internal influences, or alternative meanings.

Significator

Reading Techniques

A card chosen to represent the querent or the main theme of a reading, often placed separately from the spread.

How to Use This Glossary

For Learning

Start with basic terms like querent and spread before moving to advanced concepts.

For Reference

Quick definitions when you encounter unfamiliar terms in readings, books, or online resources.

For Teaching

Clear explanations with examples to help you explain tarot concepts to others.

Essential Terms for Beginners

If you're new to tarot, start with these fundamental terms that you'll encounter in every reading:

Must-Know Terms

  • • Querent - The person getting the reading
  • • Spread - The card layout pattern
  • • Reversals - Upside-down cards

Card Types

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