volute Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun ornament consisting of a curve on a plane that winds around a center with an increasing distance from the center
    spiral.
  2. noun a structure consisting of something wound in a continuous series of loops
    coil; spiral; helix; whorl.
    • a coil of rope
  3. adjective satellite in the shape of a coil
    helical; spiraling; spiral; turbinate; voluted; whorled; coiling.

WordNet

Vo*lute" noun
Etymology
F. volute (cf. It. voluta), L. voluta, from volvere, volutum, to roll. See Voluble.
Definitions
  1. (Arch.) A spiral scroll which forms the chief feature of the Ionic capital, and which, on a much smaller scale, is a feature in the Corinthian and Composite capitals. See Illust. of Capital, also Helix, and Stale.
  2. (Zoöl.) A spiral turn, as in certain shells.
  3. (Zoöl.) Any voluta.

Webster 1913