Coiled: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that is wound into a series of loops or rings, often for storage or compactness.

• The snake coiled around the branch.
• She coiled the rope neatly after using it.

Often has a negative connotation and is used to describe something that has been forced out of its natural shape through rotation or distortion.

• The metal rod was twisted beyond recognition.
• He twisted his ankle during the game.

Used to describe something that winds around a center point in a continuous curve, often used for describing motion or shapes.

• The staircase spiraled up to the tower.
• Smoke spiraled into the evening sky.

Best for describing something that forms a curve or coil, often used in the context of hair or leaves.

• Her hair curled naturally.
• The kitten curled up on the chair.

This word is used to describe something that is wound into a series of loops or rings, often tightly. It is common in contexts involving springs, wires, or hoses.

• The garden hose was coiled neatly next to the tap
• The snake lay coiled on the rock, basking in the sun

Wind (pronounced 'wīnd') refers to moving something in a circular or curving manner around another object. It is often used for winding clocks, watches, or wrapping string and yarn.

• He wound the string around the spool
• The hikers wound their way up the narrow mountain path

Twist means to turn something so that it bends or curls into a different shape. It can refer to physical actions or to changes in a story or situation.

• She twisted the cap off the bottle
• The movie had an unexpected plot twist that surprised everyone

Spiral refers to something that winds around a central point or axis, progressively getting closer or further away from it. It can be used in both physical and abstract contexts, such as describing a shape or a situation that worsens over time.

• The staircase spiraled up to the top floor of the lighthouse
• Prices began to spiral out of control