helical

adjective

he·​li·​cal ˈhe-li-kəl  ˈhē- 

: of, relating to, or having the form of a helix

broadly : spiral sense 1a

helically

ˈhe-li-k(ə-)lē 

ˈhē-

adverb

Synonyms of helical

• spiral
• winding

Examples of helical in a Sentence

Sirius, the brightest star in the heavens, travels a helical path through space.

Recent Examples on the Web

Closer to the galaxy's core, the jet takes on a helical form. — Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 2 Oct. 2025

The team designed a soft, airless wheel that features elastic steel strips in a woven, crossed-helical pattern. — Chris Young, Interesting Engineering, 17 Dec. 2025

The two twisted helical stair stringers that support the treads are the structural beams that support the stairs and anyone going up and down them. — Tim Carter, Hartford Courant, 3 Jan. 2026

On a pedestal at the foot of an impressive cantilevered helical staircase stands the ornate Taca de Portugal. — James Horncastle, New York Times, 10 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin helicālis, from Latin helic-, helix "spiral, helix" + -ālis -al entry 1

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for helical

• pellicle
• evangelical

Medical Definition

helical

adjective

he·​li·​cal ˈhel-i-kəl  ˈhē-li- 

: of, relating to, or having the form of a helix

the helical configuration of DNA

broadly : spiral sense 1a

helically

-k(ə-)lē 

adverb