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.