Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Constellation \Con`stel*la"tion\, n. [F. constellation, L.
   constellatio.]
   1. A cluster or group of fixed stars, or dvision 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.

   Note: 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, [alpha] Tauri (Aldebaran) is the first
         star of Taurus, [gamma] 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.

Source : WordNet®

constellation
     n 1: an arrangement of parts or elements; "the outcome depends on
          the configuration of influences at the time" [syn: {configuration}]
     2: a configuration of stars as seen from the earth