Helices: meaning, definitions and examples

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helices

[ˈhɛlɪsiːz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

biology

Spiral structures found in living organisms, such as DNA molecules or certain proteins, responsible for various biological functions.

Synonyms

coils, spirals, twists.

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. The DNA molecule has a double helix structure The protein forms a helix as part of its tertiary structure
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. The staircase spirals up to the top floor The galaxy has a beautiful spiral shape
coils	Common in everyday language to describe objects or materials wound into loops or rings, like cables, ropes, or springs. The snake coiled around the branch She carefully coiled the rope and hung it on the hook
twists	Used to describe an act of turning or winding something around itself or another object, often suggesting a quick or forceful motion. He gave the cap a quick twist to open the bottle The plot of the movie had an unexpected twist at the end

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.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

architecture

A spiral structure, often used in staircases or certain building designs, adding a unique aesthetic and functional element.

Synonyms

coil, spiral, twist.

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. The DNA molecule has two helices that are twisted around each other
spiral	Used to describe something winding in a continuous and gradually widening curve, often used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. The staircase spiraled up to the top of the tower
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. She twisted the cap off the bottle The plot had a surprising twist at the end
coil	Commonly used when referring to something wound into a series of loops, often used for objects like wires, ropes, or springs. He carefully coiled the garden hose after watering the plants

Examples of usage

The modern building featured a stunning glass helix as its central staircase.
This architectural masterpiece incorporated helices into its design.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

physics

A three-dimensional curve that lies on a cylinder or cone and cuts the elements at a constant angle.

Synonyms

coil, spiral, twist.

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. The double helices of DNA are fundamental to genetic coding The protein's helices played a crucial role in its function
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. The staircase in the old tower was a beautiful spiral The galaxy formed a stunning spiral in the night sky
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. She coiled the rope neatly after using it The snake coiled itself around the tree branch
twist	Commonly used in everyday vocabulary when referring to changing something’s shape by turning it, or when describing unexpected changes or turns in events or stories. She twisted the cap off the bottle The plot of the movie had a surprising twist

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "helices" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hélices

🇮🇳 प्रोपेलर

🇩🇪 Schrauben

🇮🇩 baling-baling

🇺🇦 гвинти

🇵🇱 śruby

🇯🇵 プロペラ

🇫🇷 hélices

🇪🇸 hélices

🇹🇷 pervaneler

🇰🇷 프로펠러

🇸🇦 مراوح

🇨🇿 vrtule

🇸🇰 vrtule

🇨🇳 螺旋桨

🇸🇮 propelerji

🇮🇸 skrúfur

🇰🇿 пропеллерлер

🇬🇪 პატარჭალები

🇦🇿 pervanelər

🇲🇽 hélices

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.

...
24444 guiltless
24445 doggedly
24446 interceptor
24447 helices
24448 virility
24449 paralyzing
24450 wintered
...