What Are the Personality Traits of a Scorpio? A Complete Guide to the Zodiac Sign

Colder and shorter days are upon us as we officially approach Scorpio season on Oct. 22.

As one of the 12 signs of the zodiac, Scorpio comes after Libra season, the Air sign that’s known for its carefree and charming personality.

Astrologer Valerie Mesa tells PEOPLE that out of all of the zodiac signs, Scorpios are one of “the most intriguing signs in the zodiac,” even if they are commonly misunderstood.

“Scorpios are driven by an all-or-nothing approach,” she explains. Scorpios crave truth, intensity, and passion in everything they do. Don’t bother trying to engage in half-hearted, superficial or shallow conversations.

From personality traits to compatibility, here is everything to know about the Scorpio zodiac sign.

What are the Scorpio dates for 2024?

In 2024, Scorpio season will run from Oct. 22 through Nov. 21. Mesa, explains that “the sun enters Scorpio on Oct. 22 at 6:14 pm EST, where it will remain until Nov. 21 at exactly 2:56 pm EST.”

Mesa adds that the Earth’s axis can affect the specific dates for each zodiac sign. “Since it takes roughly 365 days for Earth to revolve are the sun, the speed of the Earth’s orbit can vary. So the days may also vary based off of that.”

What are the key personality traits of a Scorpio?

For this misunderstood sign, Mesa describes Scorpios as “mysterious, intense, and deeply passionate” people and adds that “you either can’t live without a Scorpio or simply want absolutely nothing to do with them.” 

“Scorpios are easily one of the most intriguing signs in the zodiac,” she says. “They’re fiercely loyal, and although it takes a while for this Water sign to open up to others, once they trust you, they’re a ride-or-die confidant.”

However, Mesa warns that you should not betray a Scorpio’s trust. “On top of them being a formidable adversary, they’ll cut you off faster than you realize.”

Which zodiac signs are most compatible with Scorpio?

As a Water sign themselves, it comes as no surprise that Scorpios are most compatible with fellow Water signs like Cancers and Pisces. Mesa explains that these signs are a Scorpio’s equal, which “makes them an ideal match for this deeply intuitive and enigmatic sign.”

In a romantic relationship, “Pisces compliments Scorpio’s mystifying nature and desire for spirituality, so these two often create a bond that feels almost fated.” Mesa adds that in friendships and romantic connections, “Cancers are also a solid companion for Scorpio, as they both value loyalty and our fiercely protective of each other, which creates a nurturing and passionate dynamic. (Cancers are also fascinated with Scorpio’s mysteries, which often leads to passion and attraction.)”

Outside of the Water signs, Taurus placements are considered Scorpio’s counterpart and can bring “perfect balance” in a friendship or romantic connection. “Despite being polar opposites in the zodiac, Taurus’s grounded, sensual nature complements Scorpio’s intensity,” she says.

“Together, Taurus and Scorpio have the power to create a yin-yang effect where both can thrive and benefit from the relationship.”

Which zodiac signs are least compatible with Scorpio?

For Scorpios, it’s best to avoid Fire sign placements. Mesa calls these placements Scorpio’s “ultimate trigger” because their “unpredictable energy and need for excitement” can clash with “Scorpio’s more controlled and strategic nature.”

Mesa says that Leo placements are often considered “Scorpio’s nemesis.” “It can feel like a love-hate relationship between the two,” she explains. “Both Leo and Scorpio are fixed signs, which means they’re stubborn and don’t back down easily, especially with each other.”

For Scorpios, Mesa shares that “Leo’s need for constant attention clashes with Scorpio’s more reserved, private demeanor and Scorpio’s penetrating but passive aggression can easily get under a Leo’s skin.”

“Leo wants to be admired and in the spotlight, while Scorpio prefers to operate behind the scenes, pulling the strings,” she adds. “This power struggle can lead to explosive drama, equally erupting with passion.”

How will Scorpio season affect Scorpios?

Mesa says that for Scorpio placements, “their celestial season is like a personal solar recharge” and it will be “their time to shine and regenerate.”

Their season also brings a sense of renewal and empowerment, offering a fresh chapter in their life story,” she explains. “Scorpios are likely to feel more in tune with themselves, as they are motivated to make bold moves and transformations during this time, whether in their personal or professional lives. They’re introspective but also magnetic, almost as if their Plutonian essence were at an all-time high.”

Which celebrities are Scorpios?

Some of the most well-known celebrities with Scorpio placements include Katy Perry, Ciara, SZA and Ryan Gosling.

Not only are Love is Blind cohosts Nick and Vanessa Lachey happily married, but the couple both celebrate their birthdays on Nov. 9.