Helix

Pronunciation: /ˈhiːlɪks/

Definitions of helix

noun a spiral structure resembling a coil

Example Sentences

A1 A helix is a spiral shape like a spring.

A2 The DNA molecule is shaped like a double helix.

B1 The staircase was designed with a beautiful helix shape.

B2 The helix of the seashell was perfectly preserved.

C1 The scientist studied the helix structure of the protein in detail.

C2 The artist created a stunning sculpture inspired by the Fibonacci helix sequence.

Examples of helix in a Sentence

formal The DNA molecule is structured in a double helix.

informal I twisted the wire into a helix shape for the project.

slang That roller coaster has a crazy helix drop!

figurative The plot of the novel took a helix-like turn, leaving readers guessing until the end.

Grammatical Forms of helix

• past tense: helixed
• plural: helices
• comparative: more helical
• superlative: most helical
• present tense: helixes
• future tense: will helix
• perfect tense: have helixed
• continuous tense: is helixing
• singular: helix
• positive degree: helix
• infinitive: to helix
• gerund: helixing
• participle: helixed

Origin and Evolution of helix

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Ancient Greek

Story behind the word: The word 'helix' is derived from the Ancient Greek word 'helix' meaning a spiral or twisted structure.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in reference to a spiral or twisted structure, the word 'helix' has evolved to also refer to a three-dimensional curve that lies on a cylinder or cone, such as a coil or spiral staircase.