helices: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowAcademic, Scientific, Technical
Quick answer
What does “helices” mean?
The plural form of 'helix,' referring to spiral shapes, structures, or curves.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The plural form of 'helix,' referring to spiral shapes, structures, or curves.
Commonly used to describe the spiral structures found in biology (e.g., DNA double helix), architecture (e.g., spiral staircases), mathematics, and mechanics (e.g., screws, springs). Can also figuratively describe something that coils or winds.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or usage differences. Pronunciation of the final vowel may vary (see IPA).
Connotations
Identical in both dialects; highly technical/scientific.
Frequency
Equally low in both dialects, confined to specialized fields.
Grammar
How to Use “helices” in a Sentence
The [noun] consists of/takes the form of [two/several] helices.[Adjective] helices are observed in [scientific context].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “helices” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [Not applicable; 'helices' is a noun.]
American English
- [Not applicable; 'helices' is a noun.]
adverb
British English
- [Not applicable; 'helices' is a noun.]
American English
- [Not applicable; 'helices' is a noun.]
adjective
British English
- [Not applicable; 'helices' is a noun.]
American English
- [Not applicable; 'helices' is a noun.]
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Frequent in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering literature to describe spiral structures.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Might be used when discussing DNA, architecture, or certain mechanical parts.
Technical
Core term in molecular biology, structural engineering, and mechanical design.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “helices”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “helices”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “helices”
- Using the incorrect plural 'helixes' in formal/academic writing.
- Mispronouncing the final '-ces' as /sɪz/ instead of /siːz/.
- Using the word in a non-technical context where 'spirals' or 'coils' would be more natural.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
While 'helixes' is occasionally seen, 'helices' (/ˈhiːlɪsiːz/) is the standard and preferred plural form, especially in academic and scientific contexts.
The DNA double helix is the most iconic example. Other common examples include spiral staircases, springs, and the structure of alpha-keratin in hair and nails.
Technically, a helix is a three-dimensional curve that winds around a cylinder or cone at a constant angle (like a spring). A spiral is typically a two-dimensional curve that winds around a central point, getting closer or farther (like a snail shell). In everyday language, they are often used interchangeably.
The most common pronunciation is /ˈhiːlɪsiːz/ (HEE-li-seez). The first syllable rhymes with 'see', the second is 'li' as in 'lid', and the final '-ces' is pronounced 'seez'.
The plural form of 'helix,' referring to spiral shapes, structures, or curves.
Helices is usually academic, scientific, technical in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms; the word is highly technical]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'HELIX' as a spiral. To make it plural, remember: 'E' changes to 'I' as in 'index -> indices' or 'matrix -> matrices'. 'Helices' is the scientific way to say 'more than one helix'.
Conceptual Metaphor
SPIRAL STRUCTURE IS A HELIX (used as a foundational metaphor for understanding complex, coiled forms in nature and design).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'helices' MOST commonly used?