helix
English
/ˈhiːlɪks/
noun
Definitions
- (mathematics) A curve on the surface of a cylinder or cone such that its angle to a plane perpendicular to the axis is constant; the three-dimensional curve seen in a screw or a spiral staircase.
- (architecture) A small volute under the abacus of a Corinthian capital.
- (anatomy) The incurved rim of the external ear.
- An upside down midair 360° spin in playboating.
Etymology
Borrowed from Latin helix derived from Ancient Greek ἕλιξ (spiral, something twisted, something twisted spiral).
Origin
Ancient Greek
ἕλιξ
Gloss
spiral, something twisted, something twisted spiral
Timeline
Distribution of cognates by language
Geogrpahic distribution of cognates
Cognates and derived terms
- anthelix English
- antihelicase English
- antihelix English
- contrahelicase English
- helicase English
- heliciform English
- helicin English
- helixing English
- helixlike English
- hemihelix English
- interhelix English
- microhelix English
- minihelix English
- superhelix English
- tetrahelix English
- trihelix English
- helix Latin
- helix Dutch, Flemish
- héli- French
- hélice French
- hélicoptère French
- ἕλιξ Ancient Greek
- *welH- Proto-Indo-European