spiral

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   A curve that winds around a central point, getting wider or moving along as it turns.

   The staircase climbed in a tight spiral to the top of the tower.

2. 2
   adj

   Winding in a continuous curve around a center, like a coil.

   The shell had a beautiful spiral pattern.

3. 3
   verb

   To move in a winding, circular path.

   The falling leaves spiraled down from the tree.

4. 4
   verb

   To increase or get worse in a continuous, uncontrolled way.

   Her debts were spiraling out of control.

From Middle French spirale, from Medieval Latin spiralis, from Latin spīra, from Ancient Greek σπεῖρα (speîra, “wreath, coil, twist”).

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