Spiraled: meaning, definitions and examples

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spiraled

[ˈspaɪrəld ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

mathematics

To move in a spiral course, especially in a continuous and gradually widening or tightening curve.

Synonyms

coil, curve, twist, wind.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spiraled	Used to describe something that moves in a continuous and smooth curve around a central point, often going downwards or upwards. The staircase spiraled all the way to the top of the tower Her emotions spiraled out of control
twist	Describes something that is turned or bent in a way that changes its shape, often implying a force applied. Can have negative connotations when referring to actions or situations. He twisted the wire to secure it The plot of the book takes an unexpected twist
curve	Refers to a smoothly bending line without sharp angles. Commonly used in both geometric and everyday descriptions of shapes and movements. The road curves along the mountainside She drew a curve with a single stroke of the pen
coil	Typically refers to something wound in a series of loops or rings, often tightly. Useful in contexts where precision or physical winding is involved. The snake coiled up in its cage He coiled the rope neatly before storing it
wind	Used to describe something that moves in a curving or circular path, often in a relaxed or natural manner. The river winds through the valley She wound the yarn into a ball

Examples of usage

The airplane spiraled down towards the ground.
The tornado spiraled through the town, causing destruction.
The dancer spiraled gracefully across the stage.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

art

A shape or pattern that coils around a central point in a continuously widening or tightening curve.

Synonyms

coil, swirl, twist, whirl.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spiraled	Often used to describe something that moves in a continuous curve around a central point, like a staircase or rapid changes in a situation. The football spiraled through the air His mood spiraled out of control
coil	Used to describe something wound into a series of loops, typically referring to wires, ropes, or springs. The snake coiled around the tree branch He carefully coiled the garden hose
twist	Used when describing something that is turned or bent out of shape, or a sudden change in a narrative. She had to twist the knob to open the door The story took an unexpected twist
whirl	Often used to describe fast spinning or rotating motions, typically referring to people, objects, or thoughts. The dancers whirled across the floor Her mind was in a whirl with all the new information
swirl	Typically describes a twisting or spinning motion, often seen with liquids, smoke, or abstract patterns. The water swirled down the drain Colors swirled together in a mesmerizing pattern

Examples of usage

The painting featured intricate spirals and swirls.
The artist used spirals to create a sense of movement in the artwork.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'spiraled' comes from the Latin word 'spiralis', meaning 'coiled' or 'twisted'.
Its usage in English dates back to the late 19th century, capturing the idea of circular movement.
Old French also influenced the spelling, bringing in variations of the word that emphasize winding shapes.

Science

Many natural patterns, like galaxies and tornadoes, display spiraled shapes as a result of physical forces at play.
In biology, some plants, such as sunflowers and pine cones, exhibit spiraled arrangements that are efficient for growth and reproduction.
The human DNA structure is spiraled into a double helix, detailing how genetic information is stored and transmitted.

Art and Design

Spiraled designs are a common theme in art, symbolizing infinity and continuity, found in works from various cultures.
Famous artist Escher often used spiraled shapes in his prints to create mind-bending visual illusions.
In architecture, spiraled forms, like towers and staircases, are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, capturing movement and fluidity.

Psychology

In cognitive psychology, thinking in spirals can represent complex problem-solving, where ideas are revisited and expanded.
The 'spiral of silence' theory explains how individuals may withhold opinions when they sense they are in the minority, causing ideas to twist and turn instead of being expressed.
Spiraled thinking can also be linked to patterns of anxiety, where thoughts may cycle repetitively around fears or concerns.

Pop Culture

Spiraled imagery is popular in movies, especially in sequences that represent confusion or disorientation.
The spiral symbol is often used in tattoos and fashion, signifying personal growth or life’s journey, embracing the idea of change.
In video games, spiraled maze designs create challenges and enhance experiences, encouraging players to navigate through twists and turns.

Translations

Translations of the word "spiraled" in other languages:

🇵🇹 espiralado

🇮🇳 सर्पिलित

🇩🇪 spiralförmig

🇮🇩 berpilin

🇺🇦 спіральний

🇵🇱 spiralny

🇯🇵 螺旋状の

🇫🇷 en spirale

🇪🇸 en espiral

🇹🇷 spiralli

🇰🇷 나선형의

🇸🇦 حلزوني

🇨🇿 spirálový

🇸🇰 špirálovitý

🇨🇳 螺旋的

🇸🇮 spiralen

🇮🇸 spírallagaður

🇰🇿 спиральді

🇬🇪 სპირალურ

🇦🇿 spiralvari

🇲🇽 en espiral