Spiralling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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spiralling
[ˈspaɪərəlɪŋ ]
Definitions
motion, descent
To spiral means to move in a circular or helical path, often downward. This word is commonly used to describe the motion of objects that rotate around a point, such as a bird spiraling down to the ground or a roller coaster gaining speed as it descends in a spiral. Spiraling can also metaphorically refer to situations that worsen over time, resembling a downward spiral in relationships or economic conditions.
Synonyms
coiling, corkscrewing, twisting, whirling.
Examples of usage
- The plane was spiraling down after the engine failure.
- Her thoughts began spiraling out of control during the stressful meeting.
- The roller coaster spiraled thrillingly towards the ground.
- As the storm approached, the leaves spiraled down from the trees.
figurative, decline
Spiraling can also describe something that is experiencing an uncontrolled or rapid decline. This usage often encompasses various aspects of life, such as mental health or financial stability. When someone talks about spiraling into depression or debt, they mean that the situation is deteriorating quickly and may feel overwhelming or unmanageable.
Synonyms
declining, deteriorating, falling, plummeting.
Examples of usage
- He felt himself spiraling into a deep depression.
- Their finances are spiraling out of control.
- The company is spiraling into bankruptcy.
- She watched her plans spiraling away from her grasp.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Mathematics
- In mathematics, a spiral can be defined as a curve that emanates from a point, moving farther away as it revolves around that point.
- Common examples include the Archimedean spiral, which has a constant distance between each turn.
- Spirals play a crucial role in various fields, from physics to biology, representing growth patterns or orbits.
Psychology
- The term is often used metaphorically to describe mental states, such as a 'spiral of negative thoughts'.
- Spiralling emotions can lead to anxiety, where feelings seem to grow or complicate over time.
- Therapeutic practices often aim to help individuals break free from negative spirals, moving towards healthier thought patterns.
Art and Culture
- Famous artworks like Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Virgin of the Rocks' feature spiral compositions that draw the viewer's eye.
- In architecture, spirals are prevalent in designs, from ancient structures to modern buildings, symbolizing dynamism.
- Many folk dances include spiraling movements, reflecting cultural significance in various traditions.
Science
- In nature, spirals are seen in galaxies, weather patterns like cyclones, and even in the arrangement of seeds in a sunflower.
- Spirals can be found in the structure of DNA, showcasing the significance of this shape in biology.
- The Fibonacci sequence often results in spiral patterns in organisms, illustrating the connection between mathematics and nature.
Origin of 'spiralling'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'spiralis', which means 'twisted' or 'helical'.
- The base form of the term can be traced back to the late 14th century, indicating a form of twisting.
- It has expanded in usage over time beyond physical forms to describe emotional or conceptual states.
The term 'spiral' originates from the Latin word 'spira', which means coil or twist. The etymology traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root 'spei-', which denotes the concept of twisting or turning. The transition from the Latin 'spira' to the Old French 'spirale' eventually led to the adoption of 'spiral' in Middle English around the 14th century. The usage of 'spiral' as a verb to describe motion became commonplace in the 19th century. Over time, the metaphorical use of spiraling to describe negative trends or experiences emerged, reflecting the dynamic nature of language and how it adapts to contemporary contexts.