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View synonyms for helix
helix
[ hee-liks ]
noun
, plural hel·i·ces [hel, -, uh, -seez], he·lix·es.
- a spiral.
- Geometry. the curve formed by a straight line drawn on a plane when that plane is wrapped around a cylindrical surface of any kind, especially a right circular cylinder, as the curve of a screw. Equation: x = a sinθ, y = a cosθ, z = b θ.
- Architecture.
- a spiral ornament.
- (in a Corinthian capital) either of two scrolls issuing from a cauliculus. Compare Corinthian ( def 2 ).
- Anatomy. the curved fold forming most of the rim of the external ear.
- Biochemistry. alpha helix.
helix
/ ˈhiːlɪks /
noun
- a curve that lies on a cylinder or cone, at a constant angle to the line segments making up the surface; spiral
- a spiral shape or form
- the incurving fold that forms the margin of the external ear
- another name for volute
- any terrestrial gastropod mollusc of the genus Helix, which includes the garden snail ( H. aspersa )
helix
/ hē′lĭks /
- A three-dimensional spiral curve. In mathematical terms, a helix can be described as a curve turning about an axis on the surface of a cylinder or cone while rising at a constant upward angle from a base.
- Something, such as a strand of DNA, having a spiral shape.
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Word History and Origins
Origin of helix1
1555–65; < Latin: a spiral, a kind of ivy < Greek hélix anything twisted; compare helíssein to turn, twist, roll
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Word History and Origins
Origin of helix1
C16: from Latin, from Greek: spiral; probably related to Greek helissein to twist
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Example Sentences
Hedéra Hélix, Irish Ivy, is a valuable evergreen for covering naked walls, or any other unsightly object.
From Project Gutenberg
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