coil

Definition

Something wound in the form of a helix or spiral.

Etymology

From Middle English coilen, from Old French coillir, cuillir (“to gather, pluck, pick, cull”) (modern French cueillir), from Latin colligō (“to gather together”), past participle collectus, from com- (“together”) + legō (“to gather”); compare legend. Doublet of cull.

Example Sentences

• "the sinuous coils of a snake"
• "The wild grapevines that twisted their coils or tendrils from tree to tree."
• "‘I’m gonna go on the pill and get fitted for a coil. I don’t wanna be pregnant. Ever. Again!’"