Helices: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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