spiral

//ˈspaɪ.rəl//
B2Frequency Level 10Neutral
Visual representation of spiral

Noun

spiralSingular
spiralsPlural
1

A curve that winds around a central point while continuously moving away from or toward it.

The staircase forms a beautiful spiral.

2

A continuous and dramatic increase or decrease in something, especially one that is difficult to control.

The country is caught in a downward spiral of debt.

Synonym

Verb

spiralInfinitive
spiralPresent tense
spiraledPast tense
spiraledPast participle
spiralingPresent participle
spiralsThird-person singular
1

To move in a spiral course or pattern.

The leaves spiraled down from the tree.

2

To increase or decrease rapidly and continuously, often in an uncontrolled way.

Prices began to spiral out of control.

Synonym

Adjective

spiralCanonical form
1

Having the shape or form of a spiral; winding around a center.

The spiral staircase leads to the top of the tower.

Synonym

Antonym