Helices Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
helices
[หhษlษชsiหz ]
Definitions
biology
Spiral structures found in living organisms, such as DNA molecules or certain proteins, responsible for various biological functions.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| helices |
Used in scientific contexts, especially in biology and physics, to describe spiral structures like DNA or certain molecular formations.
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| spirals |
Often used to describe a shape that winds in a continuous and gradually widening curve, can be used in both technical and everyday contexts.
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| coils |
Common in everyday language to describe objects or materials wound into loops or rings, like cables, ropes, or springs.
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| twists |
Used to describe an act of turning or winding something around itself or another object, often suggesting a quick or forceful motion.
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Examples of usage
- The helices in DNA allow for the storage and transmission of genetic information.
- Proteins often have helices that play a crucial role in their function.
architecture
A spiral structure, often used in staircases or certain building designs, adding a unique aesthetic and functional element.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| helices |
Primarily used in scientific contexts, especially in biology and chemistry, to describe structures resembling a three-dimensional curve.
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| spiral |
Used to describe something winding in a continuous and gradually widening curve, often used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.
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| twist |
Often used to describe the action of rotating something, or to describe an unexpected change in a story or situation. Can carry a negative connotation.
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| coil |
Commonly used when referring to something wound into a series of loops, often used for objects like wires, ropes, or springs.
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Examples of usage
- The modern building featured a stunning glass helix as its central staircase.
- This architectural masterpiece incorporated helices into its design.
physics
A three-dimensional curve that lies on a cylinder or cone and cuts the elements at a constant angle.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| helices |
Use when referring to structures in biology, chemistry, or physics that have a shape winding around a central axis, especially in the context of DNA or proteins.
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| spiral |
Best used when describing a continuous, curved shape that winds around a central point and moves outward or upward, often seen in natural forms and certain man-made structures.
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| coil |
Appropriate in everyday situations when discussing something wound in a series of loops or when describing something that can be wrapped or twisted, typically flexible materials.
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| twist |
Commonly used in everyday vocabulary when referring to changing somethingโs shape by turning it, or when describing unexpected changes or turns in events or stories.
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Examples of usage
- The helix is a common shape observed in various natural phenomena.
- Understanding the properties of helices is crucial in many branches of physics.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- In science, a famous example of a helix is the structure of DNA, which resembles a twisted ladder.
- Helices are common in biology, where many proteins also have spiral shapes that are crucial for their functions.
- Helices can be found in nature, such as in the shape of snail shells or the growth patterns of certain plants.
Mathematics
- In geometry, a helix can be represented by specific mathematical equations that describe spiral curves.
- There are different types of helices, like the right-handed helix and left-handed helix, based on the direction they twist.
- Helical structures are studied in fields like topology, where shapes are analyzed for their properties.
Technology
- Helical antennas are used in telecommunications as they can receive and transmit signals more effectively.
- In engineering, screw threads often follow a helical shape, allowing for efficient movement and fastening in machines.
- 3D printing technology can create helical components for various applications, improving design and functionality.
Art and Culture
- Artists have often used spiral and helical shapes in their work, symbolizing concepts like growth and evolution.
- The famous Nautilus shell, with its perfect helical shape, has inspired both artists and architects throughout history.
- Helices can be seen in folklore and ancient designs, often symbolizing life cycles and the continuum of time.
Origin of 'helices'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'helix' comes from the Greek word 'helix,' meaning 'twisted' or 'spiraled.'
- It was first used in a scientific context in the 17th century to describe spiral structures in nature.
- The plural form 'helices' is derived from Latin, keeping the original Greek meaning.
The word 'helix' originates from the Greek word 'helix' meaning a spiral or a curl. It has been used in various scientific contexts to describe spiral structures in biology, architecture, and physics. The concept of helices has been instrumental in understanding the intricate patterns and shapes found in nature, leading to advancements in different fields of study.
See also: helix.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #24,447, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
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- 24444 guiltless
- 24445 doggedly
- 24446 interceptor
- 24447 helices
- 24448 virility
- 24449 paralyzing
- 24450 wintered
- ...