VocabDictionary

helix

/ˈhiː.lɪks/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

An object having a three-dimensional shape like that of a wire wound uniformly around a cylinder or cone, such as a corkscrew or spiral staircase.

Example Sentences:
  • DNA is shaped like a double helix.
  • The architect designed a stunning metal staircase that wound upward in a continuous helix.
Share & Learn With Friends

Share “helix” with study groups, classmates, or on your social channels.

English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “helix”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek word 'hélix', meaning 'spiral' or 'coil' (related to 'heilós', meaning 'twisted' or 'turned'). It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe spiral shapes in both geometry and anatomy.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a DNA double h-elix twisting like a high-level staircase (hi-lix).

Common Collocations & Phrases
Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “helix

1. What is the meaning of “helix” in English?

In English, helix (noun) is defined as: “An object having a three-dimensional shape like that of a wire wound uniformly around a cylinder or cone, such as a corkscrew or spiral staircase.”.

2. How do you use “helix” in a sentence?

DNA is shaped like a double helix.

3. What are English synonyms of “helix”?

Common synonyms include:spiral,coil,corkscrew,screw

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “helix”?

Derived from the ancient Greek word 'hélix', meaning 'spiral' or 'coil' (related to 'heilós', meaning 'twisted' or 'turned'). It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe spiral shapes in both geometry and anatomy.