Noun > Spiral

Noun > Spiral

(count)

1 : a circular curving line that goes around a central point while getting closer to or farther away from it

The glider flew in a wide spiral over the field.

2 : a situation in which something continuously increases, decreases, or gets worse — usually singular

an inflationary spiral (=a continuous increase in prices)

a spiral of problems

Gas prices continued their dizzying upward spiral. (=gas prices got higher)

His drug use drove him into a downward spiral. (=his condition became worse and worse)

3 : American football : a kick or throw in which the ball spins while moving through the air

The quarterback threw a tight spiral to the receiver.