First Known Use: 1563
Dictionary
helix
noun he·lix \ˈhē-liks\
: the shape formed by a line that curves around and along a central line
plural he·li·ces \ˈhe-lə-ˌsēz, ˈhē-\ also he·lix·es \ˈhē-lik-səz\
Full Definition of HELIX
1
: something spiral in form: as a : an ornamental volute b : a coil formed by winding wire around a uniform tube
2
: the incurved rim of the external ear
3
: a curve traced on a cylinder or cone by the rotation of a point crossing its right sections at a constant oblique angle; broadly : spiral 1b
See helix defined for English-language learners
See helix defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of HELIX
Latin, from Greek; akin to Greek eilyein to roll, wrap — more at voluble
Medical Dictionary
helix
noun he·lix \ˈhē-liks\
plural he·li·ces \ˈhel-ə-ˌsēz, ˈhē-lə-\ also he·lix·es \ˈhē-lik-səz\
Medical Definition of HELIX
1
: the incurved rim of the external ear
2
: a curve traced on a cylinder by the rotation of a point crossing its right sections at a constant oblique angle; broadly : spiral 2—see alpha-helix, double helix
Learn More About HELIX
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: helix anglePrevious Word in the Dictionary: helium IIAll Words Near: helix
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up helix? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).