spiral
noun
Definitions of spiral noun
- Countable
a shape formed by a series of curves, with each curve positioned higher or wider than the preceding one.
The shape of the bottle opener is a spiral.
She drew a spiral pattern.
The snail's shell is spiral-shaped.
Phrases of spiral noun
- downward spiral
A situation characterized by a continuous decline in value or a worsening of conditions, often forming a self-reinforcing negative cycle where one adverse event leads to another.
• After a series of poor decisions, the company entered a downward spiral of declining performance.
verb
Definitions of spiral verb
- IntransitiveVerb + adv/prep
to move in a circular path, either ascending or descending, like a spiral.
The eagle spiralled in the sky.
The rocket spiraled upwards as it ascended.
The paper airplane spiraled down to the ground.
- IntransitiveVerb + adv/prep
to increase rapidly and continuously, especially when referring to costs or prices.
Inflation caused prices to spiral.
Real estate prices continued to spiral due to high demand.
Healthcare costs are spiraling upwards.
- IntransitiveVerb + adv/prep
to deteriorate quickly in a way that is difficult to control; to get rapidly worse.
The economic crisis could spiral rapidly.
The situation may spiral out of control if not addressed immediately.
The company could spiral into trouble due to debt issues.
Phrases of spiral verb
- spiral downwards
To decline or deteriorate rapidly and continuously, often at an accelerating pace.
• Since the company announced its losses, the stock price has started to spiral downwards.
adjective
Definitions of spiral adjective
- Before noun
having a shape that consists of a series of curves, each one positioned above or wider than the preceding one.
The spiral staircase led to the top of the tower.
They decorated the cake with spiral ornaments.
The building has a distinctive spiral design.