Definition of helix
helices
play \ˈhe-lə-ˌsēz, ˈhē-\ alsohelixes
play \ˈhē-lik-səz\1 : something spiral in form: such asa : an ornamental voluteb : a coil formed by winding wire around a uniform tube
2 : the incurved rim of the external ear
3 : a curve traced on a cylinder or cone by the rotation of a point crossing its right sections at a constant oblique angle; broadly : spiral 1b
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Recent Examples of helix from the Web
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Physical micromotors often use a helix of magnetic material, spinning naturally under the control of a rotating magnetic field.
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This is different from the twist of the double helix, and is instead like the curling of an old-school phone cord.
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The letters formed rungs on the ladder of a spiraling double helix.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'helix'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of helix
Latin, from Greek; akin to Greek eilyein to roll, wrap — more at voluble
First Known Use: 1563
HELIX Defined for English Language Learners
helix
playDefinition of helix for English Language Learners
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: the shape formed by a line that curves around and along a central line
Medical Dictionary
helix
playMedical Definition of helix
helices
\ˈhel-ə-ˌsēz, ˈhē-lə-\play play alsohelixes
\ˈhē-lik-səz\play1: the incurved rim of the external ear
2: a curve traced on a cylinder by the rotation of a point crossing its right sections at a constant oblique angle; broadly : spiral 2—see alpha-helix, double helix
Learn More about helix
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Spanish Central: Translation of helix Nglish: Translation of helix for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of helix for Arabic speakers
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