Definify.com

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


hélix

hélix

See also: helix, Helix, and hèlix

Portuguese

Alternative forms

Noun

hélix m (plural hélix)

  1. (anatomy) helix (incurved rim of the external ear)