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Webster 1913 Edition

Helix

He′lix

,
Noun.
;
pl. L.
Helices
(#)
, E.
Helixes
(#)
.
[L.
helix
, Gr. [GREEK], [GREEK], fr. [GREEK] to turn round; cf. L.
volvere
, and E.
volute
,
voluble
.]
1.
(Geom.)
A nonplane curve whose tangents are all equally inclined to a given plane. The common helix is the curve formed by the thread of the ordinary screw. It is distinguished from the spiral, all the convolutions of which are in the plane.
2.
(Arch.)
A caulicule or little volute under the abacus of the Corinthian capital.
3.
(Anat.)
The incurved margin or rim of the external ear. See Illust. of
Ear
.
4.
(Zool.)
A genus of land snails, including a large number of species.
☞ The genus originally included nearly all shells, but is now greatly restricted. See
Snail
,
Pulmonifera
.

Webster 1828 Edition

Helix

HE'LIX

,
Noun.
[Gr. a winding.] A spiral line; a winding; or something that is spiral; as a winding staircase in architecture, or a caulicule or little volute under the flowers of the Corinthian capital. In anatomy, the whole circuit or extent of the auricle, or external border of the ear.
1.
In zoology, the snail-shell.

Definition 2024

Helix

Helix

See also: helix, hélix, and hèlix

Translingual

Wikispecies

Proper noun

Helix f

  1. A taxonomic genus within the family Helicidae – certain land snails.

Translations

helix

helix

See also: Helix, hélix, and hèlix

English

Helix

Noun

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 **** 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.

Synonyms

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

Derived terms

Related terms

Translations

Etymology

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