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

• 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

Power is sent through a 6-speed short-throw manual transmission to the front wheels through a helical limited-slip differential. —Michael Harley, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025

Bless Volkswagen for keeping the helical gears turning, both literally and figuratively. —ArsTechnica, 27 Aug. 2025

The magnetic field might be shaped like a spiral (called helical) or doughnut shaped (called toroidal). —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 13 Aug. 2025

Along with that, the research team also noted helical fiber structures, also with collagen, which suggests the cartilage is designed to prevent any cracks from spreading, and help to distribute staring and force. —Discover Magazine, 20 May 2025

Word History

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