noun
Uncommon
helix
HEE-lihks
Helix (noun) means a three-dimensional spiral curve, like the shape of a screw thread or a spiral staircase. Example: “DNA is famously shaped like a double helix.”
noun
1
A three-dimensional spiral curve, like the shape of a screw thread or a spiral staircase.
"DNA is famously shaped like a double helix."
"The staircase wound upward in a tight helix."
2
The curved outer rim of the ear.
"The piercing was placed on the helix of her ear."
How to use helix
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA spiral, coil-like shape — most famously the twisted-ladder shape of DNA.
Common pairings
double helix
helix shape
helix piercing
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Word forms
- Plural
- helixes, helices
- Third person singular
- helixes
- Past tense
- helixed
Fill the gap
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DNA is famously shaped like a double _____.
Etymology
From Greek helix, meaning "something twisted or spiral."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for helix
See all rhymes for helix →Frequently asked questions
What does “helix” mean?
The word “helix” means a three-dimensional spiral curve, like the shape of a screw thread or a spiral staircase. In plain terms, a spiral, coil-like shape — most famously the twisted-ladder shape of DNA.
How do you pronounce “helix”?
“Helix” is pronounced HEE-lihks (/ˈhiːlɪks/ in IPA).
How do you use “helix” in a sentence?
Here is “helix” used in a sentence: “DNA is famously shaped like a double helix.”
What part of speech is “helix”?
“Helix” is a noun.
Where does the word “helix” come from?
The word “helix” comes from Greek. From Greek helix, meaning "something twisted or spiral.".
Is “helix” a common word?
“Helix” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “helix” have?
“Helix” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a three-dimensional spiral curve, like the shape of a screw thread or a spiral staircase.
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