coiled

Everyday

1. Coiled means wound into rings or circles, one on top of another, like a spring or a rope. tree →
2. Coiled is the past form of «coil»: wound something into loops. tree →
3. Coiled can describe a body or muscle held tight, ready to move suddenly. tree →

In the lessons

In nature a snake lies coiled; in everyday life hoses, ropes and cables are coiled to keep them tidy. In science, coiled springs and coiled wire (in a bulb or electromagnet) are used. In stories a character «coiled like a spring» is ready to jump. Phrases: coiled up, coiled spring, coiled around.

Examples

• The snake lay coiled on a warm rock. tree →
• Dad coiled the garden hose after watering the plants. tree →
• The rope was coiled neatly on the deck. tree →
• A coiled wire makes the electromagnet stronger. tree →
• Her hair was coiled into a bun. tree →
• The cat was coiled, ready to pounce. tree →
• The vine coiled around the fence. tree →
• Thereupon he rushed at the Prince, brandishing an immense serpent which was coiled about his wrist. tree →

Note

Verb: coil, coils, coiled, coiling. Pronounced KOYLD, one syllable. A «coil» is one ring or a whole wound shape. Similar words: wound (WOWND), twisted, curled.