English · Word Candidate

spiral

/ˈspaɪɹəl/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: spirals · spiraling · spiralling · spiraled

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A curve that is the locus of a point that rotates about a fixed point while continuously increasing its distance from that point.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A helix.

NounRegister: informal

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

Helical, like a spiral.

Adjective

Examples

The formation of tornados and water-spouts is very probably identical with that of dust-storms and "devils," viz., a sudden disturbance of the vertical equilibrium of the atmosphere, where by an upward rush of air is generated, which rapidly becomes spiral.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To move along the path of a spiral or helix.

Verb

Examples

The falling leaves spiralled down from the tree.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “spiral” mean?

A curve that is the locus of a point that rotates about a fixed point while continuously increasing its distance from that point.

Is “spiral” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.