spiral
noun
a plane curve generated by a point moving around a fixed point while constantly receding from or approaching it.
spiralled
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past participleof spiral.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
-
past tense formof spiral.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
spiralnouna plane curve generated by a point moving around a fixed point while constantly receding from or approaching it.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"The first Test in Durban spiralled out of control in terms of behaviour, then in Port Elizabeth for the second Test, there were still some fireworks going on. We still didn't understand."
From BBC ● Oct. 7, 2026
He had "spiralled into depression" after losing his job as a batting coach in 2022.
From BBC ● Sep. 24, 2026
It will mark Sheeran's first time back on stage since the controversy spiralled.
From BBC ● Sep. 18, 2026
The campaigns come one year after protests over lavish perks for lawmakers spiralled into general anti-government anger -- Indonesia's biggest unrest since President Prabowo Subianto took office in 2024.
From Barron's ● Sep. 3, 2026
They emerged and flew about in the way of flies, in great, lazy orbits except when they came close to each other, when they spiralled together with dizzying speed and a burst of buzzing.
From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel
