rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryhelixSpiral shape
noun

helix

HEE-liks/ˈhiːlɪks/

A curve that winds around an axis while moving along it.

The thick blue wire forms a helix with evenly spaced turns.

A single open coil of thick blue wire, shown obliquely so its evenly spaced turns visibly advance along a straight axis, making the three-dimensional helix unmistakable.
Etymology
helixGreekspiral, coil

Greek helix described spiral forms such as a vine’s tendril, a curl of hair, or a serpent’s coil. The geometric meaning retains that image of something winding around.

In context

MooLer259:58
they have uh a spiral staircase that looks like a DNA Helix
EFAP #144 - A full breakdown/review of Black Widow with Madvocate and indigo Gaming

More examples

  • A spring's wire follows a helix around an empty center.
  • The screw's thread traces a helix along its shaft.
  • The two strands of DNA form a double helix.

Forms

helix · helices · helixes

helical adjective — Shaped like a three-dimensional spiral.

Similar words

coil
Emphasizes a series of loops, especially in wire or tubing.
spiral
Often lies in one plane rather than advancing along an axis.