Helix: meaning, definitions and examples

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helix

[ ˈhiːlɪks ]

^{Context #1}

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

Examples of usage

The DNA molecule has a double helix structure.
The cochlea in the inner ear is shaped like a helix.

^{Context #2}

architecture

A spiral ornament, especially on a column.

Synonyms

coil, spiral, twist

Examples of usage

The column was decorated with intricate helix patterns.
The staircase featured a beautiful helix design.

^{Context #3}

mathematics

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

Synonyms

coil, spiral, twist

Examples of usage

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

Translations

Translations of the word "helix" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hélice

🇮🇳 कुण्डल

🇩🇪 Helix

🇮🇩 heliks

🇺🇦 спіраль

🇵🇱 heliks

🇯🇵 らせん

🇫🇷 hélice

🇪🇸 hélice

🇹🇷 heliks

🇰🇷 나선

🇸🇦 لولب

🇨🇿 helix

🇸🇰 helix

🇨🇳 螺旋

🇸🇮 heliks

🇮🇸 helix

🇰🇿 спираль

🇬🇪 სპირალი

🇦🇿 heliks

🇲🇽 hélice

Word origin

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.