helix

/ˈhilɪks/

/ˈhilɪks/

Other forms: helices; helixes

A helix is a twisted, spiral shape, like a corkscrew. In math, a helix is defined as "a curve in three-dimensional space." If you have ever seen a spiral staircase, you can envision the shape of a helix.

To picture the shape of a helix, imagine the coil of a spring inside a sofa, or the shape the threads of a screw make, curling in a spiral. When you hear the word helix, you may think of a double helix, which resembles two interconnected spirals and describes the shape of human DNA. In both Latin and Greek, helix means "spiral" or "spiral-shaped thing."

Definitions of helix

1. noun

   a curve that lies on the surface of a cylinder or cone and cuts the element at a constant angle
   synonyms: spiral

   types:

   double helix

   the dual-stranded molecular structure of nucleic acids such as DNA

   type of:

   curve, curved shape

   the trace of a point whose direction of motion changes
2. noun

   a structure consisting of something wound in a continuous series of loops
   synonyms: coil, spiral, volute, whorl

   types:

   hank

   a coil of rope or wool or yarn

   skein

   coils of worsted yarn

   type of:

   construction, structure

   a thing constructed; a complex entity constructed of many parts