coil1

 
Pronunciation: /kɔɪl/

noun

  • a length of something wound in a joined sequence of concentric rings: a coil of rope
  • a single ring in a coil: the snake wrapped its coils around her
  • an intrauterine contraceptive device in the form of a coil: many women don’t like the idea of having a coil fitted
  • an electrical device consisting of a coiled wire, for converting the level of a voltage, producing a magnetic field, or adding inductance to a circuit: a relay coil
  • such a device used for transmitting high voltage to the spark plugs of an internal-combustion engine.
  • a slow-burning spiral made from the dried paste of pyrethrum powder, which produces a smoke that deters mosquitoes.
  • a roll of postage stamps, especially one for use in a vending machine.

verb

[with object]
  • arrange (something long and flexible) in a coil: he began to coil up the heavy ropes he coiled a lock of her hair around his finger
  • [no object, with adverbial] move or twist into the shape of a coil : smoke coiled lazily towards the ceiling

Origin:

early 16th century (as a verb): from Old French coillir, from Latin colligere 'gather together' (see collect1)