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Helix Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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helix

[ˈhiːlɪks ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

biology

A three-dimensional curve that lies on a cylinder or cone, so that its angle to a plane perpendicular to the axis is constant.

Synonyms

coil, spiral, twist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
helix

Used in scientific and technical contexts to describe a three-dimensional shape that curves around a central axis.

  • The DNA molecule forms a double helix
  • The engineers designed the staircase in the form of a helix
spiral

Frequently used to describe a pattern or movement that starts from a center and moves outward in a circular manner. It can also imply a negative situation that worsens gradually.

  • The galaxy forms a beautiful spiral in the night sky
  • His finances started to spiral out of control
coil

Commonly used to describe something wound into a series of loops, often in a practical or everyday context.

  • He coiled the hose neatly after watering the garden
  • The snake lay in a tight coil, ready to strike
twist

Often used to describe the action of turning or bending something into a different shape or form, or a surprising change in a situation or story.

  • She twisted the cap off the bottle
  • The plot of the movie had an unexpected twist

Examples of usage

  • The DNA molecule has a double helix structure.
  • The cochlea in the inner ear is shaped like a helix.
Context #2 | Noun

architecture

A spiral ornament, especially on a column.

Synonyms

coil, spiral, twist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
helix

Use 'helix' when describing structures with a three-dimensional, spiral-like shape, often in scientific or technical contexts such as biology or physics.

  • The DNA molecule has a double helix structure.
  • The staircase was designed as a helix to save space.
spiral

Use 'spiral' when describing a shape or movement that winds in a continuous curve, either outward or inward. This term is often used in both everyday and poetic language.

  • The snail's shell has a beautiful spiral pattern.
  • The hurricane formed a massive spiral of wind and rain.
coil

Use 'coil' when referring to something that is wound into a series of loops. This term is often employed in everyday conversations as well as mechanical or electrical contexts.

  • She found a coil of rope in the garage.
  • The heating element in the oven is made of coiled wire.
twist

Use 'twist' when referring to something that has been turned or bent into a curved shape. This term can also imply a sudden change in direction or an unexpected development in stories. It can have both physical and metaphorical uses.

  • She twisted the wire to secure the fence.
  • The plot of the movie had a surprising twist.

Examples of usage

  • The column was decorated with intricate helix patterns.
  • The staircase featured a beautiful helix design.
Context #3 | Noun

mathematics

A curve traced on a cylinder or cone by a point spiraling around the axis.

Synonyms

coil, spiral, twist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
helix

Often used in scientific and mathematical contexts, especially in reference to structures like DNA or certain types of engineering parts.

  • The DNA molecule forms a double helix structure.
  • The staircase in the old library is designed as a helix.
spiral

Suitable for describing shapes or movements that wind around a central point, either expanding outwards or tightening inwards. Often used in everyday language.

  • The spiral staircase led to the attic.
  • The company was caught in a downward financial spiral.
coil

Used when referring to something wound in a series of loops, often in everyday items like cords, cables, or springs.

  • She wrapped the garden hose into a neat coil.
  • The heater has a metal coil that generates warmth.
twist

Used when something is turned or bent in a curved shape, often implying a change in direction or form. Can have negative connotations when referring to confusion or distortion.

  • She gave the bottle cap a quick twist to open it.
  • The story had an unexpected twist at the end.

Examples of usage

  • The helix can be described as a curve around a central axis.
  • The screw thread follows a helix pattern.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In DNA, the double helix structure was discovered by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953, revealing how genetic information is stored.
  • Helices appear in various biological structures, such as proteins, where their curliness affects their function.
  • The path of a helix can be described mathematically, leading to applications in engineering and physics, such as coils and springs.

Architecture

  • Some famous staircases, like the double helix staircase at the Louvre Museum in Paris, showcase the beauty of the helix shape.
  • In architecture, helix designs are employed to create flowing, dynamic spaces in modern buildings.

Art

  • Artists have used the spiral and helix shapes to symbolize growth and evolution in their work.
  • Helical forms can be found in sculptures and installations that intertwine beauty with mathematical principles.

Mathematics

  • Helices are studied in geometry and calculus, serving as an essential shape in 3D modeling and computer graphics.
  • The right-handed and left-handed helix classification helps in understanding molecular structures and DNA orientation.

Origin of 'helix'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'helix' comes from the Greek word 'helix', which means 'twisted'.
  • Its usage in English dates back to the 16th century, particularly in scientific contexts.

The word 'helix' originated from the Latin word 'helix', which in turn came from the Greek word 'helix' meaning 'spiral'. The concept of a helix has been used in various fields such as biology, architecture, and mathematics to describe spiral or coil-like structures. The term has been widely adopted in scientific and technical contexts to represent the unique shape and structure of certain objects.

See also: helices.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,823, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.