helix

From Latin helix, from Ancient Greek ἕλιξ (hélix, “something twisted or spiral”).

• IPA^(key): /ˈhiːlɪks/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

• Rhymes: -iːlɪks

helix (plural helixes or helices)

1. (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.
2. (architecture) A small volute under the abacus of a Corinthian capital.
3. (anatomy) The incurved rim of the external ear.
4. An upside down midair 360° spin in playboating.

• (curve): spiral (not in technical use)

• helicopter

• left-handed
• right-handed
• spiral

Borrowed from Latin helix, from Ancient Greek ἕλιξ (hélix).

• IPA^(key): /ˈɦeː.lɪks/

• Audio

  (file)

• Hyphenation: he‧lix

helix f (plural helices or helixen)

1. helix

   Synonym: schroeflijn

Borrowed from Ancient Greek ἕλιξ (hélix).

• (Classical) IPA^(key): /ˈhe.liks/, [ˈhɛ.lɪks]

helix f (genitive helicis); third declension

1. a kind of ivy
2. a kind of willow
3. a whorl, a small ornament on the capital of Corynthian columns

Third declension.

• helix in Charlton T. Lewis and Charles Short (1879) A Latin Dictionary, Oxford: Clarendon Press
• helix in Gaffiot, Félix (1934) Dictionnaire Illustré Latin-Français, Hachette