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spiral

Pronunciation: [ˈspaɪrəl]

Word

Context: “geometry”

(noun) A spiral is a shape that starts in the middle and winds around and around, getting further away each time. Think of it like stairs that go up in a circle.

Example

The garden had a beautiful spiral path that led to a fountain.

Example

The spiral in the drawing didn't look right; it was too straight.

Example

Can you draw a spiral shape for me?

Context: “movement”

(verb) To spiral means to move in a circular or twisting way, like a bird twisting as it flies or a roller coaster looping around.

Example

The hawk spiraled gracefully in the sky while searching for food.

Example

The balloon didn’t spiral down; it floated straight up.

Example

Did the roller coaster spiral around the track?

Context: “growth”

(verb) To spiral can also mean to increase quickly and in a confusing way, like if a problem or situation gets worse and worse very fast.

Example

The team's excitement began to spiral as they kept winning games.

Example

The project did not spiral out of control; it stayed on track and finished well.

Example

Can you see how quickly the situation might spiral if we don't act?

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