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Coils Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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coils

[kɔɪlz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mechanical

Coils are loops of material, wire, or other flexible substance that are wound in a spiral or helix shape. They are commonly used in machinery, electronics, and heating systems.

Synonyms

helices, spirals, windings.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
coils

Used to describe something wound or arranged in a spiral or series of loops, often materials like wires or ropes.

  • The snake lay in coils in the sun.
  • He carefully arranged the electrical coils.
spirals

Generally used to describe something in a shape that winds in a continuous and gradually widening curve, often used in more abstract or artistic descriptions.

  • She drew spirals in the sand with a stick.
  • The spiral staircase was a central feature of the old house.
helices

Specifically used in scientific or technical contexts to describe structures that are in a spiral form, such as DNA or certain types of stairs.

  • The DNA molecule has a double helix structure.
  • The staircase in the lighthouse is a perfect helix.
windings

Used to refer to something wound around another object, commonly used in mechanical or electrical engineering contexts like motors or coils.

  • The old clock had several windings that needed to be adjusted.
  • The windings of the transformer were burned out.

Examples of usage

  • The coils in the engine help regulate the temperature.
  • The copper coils in the refrigerator facilitate the cooling process.
Context #2 | Noun

jewelry

Coils can also refer to a type of jewelry that is designed in a circular, spiral shape. These coils are often used in bracelets, necklaces, and earrings for a unique and stylish look.

Synonyms

circlets, spirals, twists.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
coils

Refers to loops or rings created by winding, often used for describing wires, ropes, or springs that are wound into circles.

  • The electrician adjusted the coils of wire carefully
  • The snake rested in coils, basking in the sun
spirals

Shapes or patterns that wind around a central point in a continuous curve, often used in art, nature, or when describing staircases or DNA.

  • She admired the intricate spirals on the shell
  • The staircase wound upwards in a grand spiral
circlets

Small circular bands, often used for decorative purposes such as jewelry, crowns, or garlands.

  • The princess wore a delicate circlet of gold on her head
  • The handmade circlet of flowers looked beautiful
twists

Refers to the action of turning something repeatedly or a change in the direction, often used for describing hair, ropes, or story plots.

  • She created several twists in her hair for the new style
  • The novel had an unexpected twist at the end

Examples of usage

  • She wore a beautiful coil bracelet on her wrist.
  • The earrings featured intricate coils that caught the light.
Context #3 | Verb

action

To coil means to wind or twist something into loops or spirals. It is often used in reference to cables, ropes, or similar flexible objects that are being neatly arranged or stored.

Synonyms

spiral, twist, wind.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
coils

This is the plural form of 'coil,' indicating multiple loops or windings.

  • She wore bracelets made of delicate gold coils.
  • The heater uses coils to generate heat.
wind

This word signifies wrapping or turning something around in a circular or helical shape. It is often used to describe the action of moving something into a coil or spiral.

  • She winds yarn into a ball.
  • You need to wind the clock every day.
twist

This word denotes a form of turning or bending into a curved or distorted shape. It’s commonly used in various scenarios, from physical shapes to plot developments in stories.

  • He twisted the knob to open the door.
  • The plot had an unexpected twist.
spiral

This word is used to describe something that curves continuously around a central point, often in a helical shape. It can also metaphorically describe something that is escalating or deteriorating rapidly.

  • The staircase in the old house spirals up to the attic.
  • Her emotions spiraled out of control.

Examples of usage

  • He carefully coiled the rope after use.
  • She coiled the extension cord for easy storage.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, coils are important for creating magnetic fields, such as in electromagnets and inductors.
  • Coils can store energy, which is a key principle in many electrical devices like transformers and motors.
  • The shape of a coil can influence flow dynamics, particularly in systems like heat exchangers and piping.

Manufacturing

  • In industry, coils are often made from materials like metal or plastic and are used in spring-making or electrical wiring.
  • Coiling is a fascinating an art; for example, glassblowers often use coils to add decorative elements to their creations.
  • Cable management in tech industries often includes coiled cables to prevent tangling and enhance usability.

Art

  • Visual artists sometimes use coils as a motif in sculptures, where the swirling shapes create dynamic movement.
  • In pottery, decorative coils have been used for centuries, either as functional parts or aesthetic embellishments.
  • Coiling techniques are vital in basket-making, allowing artisans to create strong and visually appealing structures.

Nature

  • Many plants, like tendrils of a vine, naturally coil around supports to help them grow upward.
  • Certain animals, like snakes, are known for their coiling behavior, which helps them to stay warm or camouflage.
  • Coiled shells of snails illustrate how nature uses this shape for protection and habitat.

Origin of 'coils'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'coil' comes from the Old French word 'coile,' which means 'a twist' or 'curl.'
  • In early uses, 'coil' described both spiraling shapes and the act of winding something tightly.
  • The term evolved in English around the 14th century, becoming commonly used in various contexts.

The word 'coil' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old French word 'coillir' meaning 'to gather'. The use of 'coil' to describe loops or spirals can be traced back to the 16th century. Over time, the word has evolved to encompass various meanings related to winding, twisting, and circular shapes.

See also: coil, coiled, coiling, recoil, uncoil.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,637 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.