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Volute Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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volute

[ˈvɒljuːt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

architecture

A spiral scroll-like ornament found in the capitals of Ionic or Corinthian columns.

Synonyms

acanthus leaf, scroll, spiral ornament.

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Word Description / Examples
volute

Often used in architecture and design, especially in the context of classical Roman and Greek styles. It refers to a spiral, scroll-like feature that is common in certain types of columns and capitals.

  • The Corinthian column is known for its elaborate volutes at the capital.
  • The ancient temple had beautifully carved volutes decorating its facade.
scroll

Generally applied to any rolled-up ornamental design, not just in architecture but also in calligraphy and art. It can describe shapes that resemble a rolled paper or parchment.

  • The scrollwork on the gate was extremely detailed.
  • Her initials were written in a beautiful scroll script.
spiral ornament

Used to describe any decorative element that has a spiral shape. This term can be applied in various fields, including jewelry, architecture, and pottery.

  • The potter added a spiral ornament to the vase's surface.
  • The necklace featured a delicate gold spiral ornament.
acanthus leaf

Mainly used in architectural and decorative contexts. The acanthus leaf is often found in classical design, particularly in Corinthian and Composite capitals, where it serves as a stylized, ornamental representation of an actual plant.

  • The intricate design of the acanthus leaf pattern added elegance to the building.
  • Many ancient Greek structures feature carvings of acanthus leaves.

Examples of usage

  • The volute is a distinctive feature of classical architecture.
  • The volute is often used to decorate the tops of columns.
  • The intricate design of the volute adds elegance to the structure.
Context #2 | Noun

biology

A spiral or scroll-like structure, such as the shell of a mollusk.

Synonyms

coiled structure, spiral shell, spiraled form.

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Word Description / Examples
volute

In addition to architecture, used in the context of pumps or turbines to describe a housing that directs the flow of liquid or gas.

  • The engineer designed the pump with an efficient volute to improve performance.
  • The volute casing helps to smoothly direct the water flow.
spiral shell

Primarily used to refer to the shells of certain sea creatures, such as snails, which have a conspicuous spiral shape.

  • The beach was covered in beautiful spiral shells.
  • A spiral shell can be a home to a variety of marine animals.
coiled structure

Often used in biology or engineering to describe something that is wound or twisted into a spiral shape.

  • The DNA double helix is a well-known coiled structure.
  • A coiled structure is used in the design of the spring to store energy.
spiraled form

Used in general descriptions to indicate any object or structure that has a spiral shape.

  • The artist created a sculpture in a spiraled form.
  • Smoke rose from the campfire in a delicate spiraled form.

Examples of usage

  • The volute of the snail shell provides protection for the animal.
  • The intricate patterns on the volute of the shell are beautiful.
  • The volute shape allows the mollusk to retreat into its shell.

Translations

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

Origin of 'volute'

The word 'volute' originated from the Latin word 'volūta', which means a spiral or scroll. It has been used in architecture to describe the spiral ornament on columns since ancient times. In biology, the term 'volute' refers to the spiral or scroll-like structure of shells, particularly in mollusks. The word has evolved over centuries to represent the distinctive spiral shapes found in various natural and man-made forms.

See also: convolute, convoluted.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,361 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.