Search results for 'spiral':

spiral noun 1 the pattern that is made by a line winding outwards from a central point in circles or near-circles of regularly increasing size. 2 the pattern that is made by a line winding upwards or downwards from a specific point in circles or near-circles of the same or ever-increasing size, as if it were describing the shape of a cylinder or cone. 3 a curve or course that makes this kind of a pattern. 4 a gradual but continuous rise or fall, eg of prices, wages, etc. adj being in or having the shape or nature of a spiral • a spiral staircase. verb (spiralled, spiralling; or (US) spiraled, spiraling) 1 intrans to follow a spiral course or pattern. 2 to make something into a spiral. 3 intrans said especially of prices, wages, etc: to go up or down, usually quickly • Prices were spiralling out of control. spiraliform adj. spirality noun. spiralled or (US) spiraled adj. spirally adverb.
ETYMOLOGY: 16c: from Latin spiralis, from Greek speira coil.