What does spiralled mean?
“Spiralled” is the past tense and past participle of “spiral,” meaning to turn or move in a twisting, circular path. It can describe a physical motion, as in smoke rising and curling upward, or the shape of an object that winds around itself. The word also has an important figurative use: problems, costs, or conflicts can “spiral,” meaning that they become increasingly severe or difficult to control. This figurative use is common in reporting and everyday discussion, especially in expressions such as “spiralling out of control” and “spiralling costs.” The spelling with two l’s is standard in British English, while American English generally uses one l: “spiraled.” In both varieties, the word is pronounced with stress on the first syllable.
To move or turn in a spiral, or to form a twisting, coiled shape.
"The ribbon spiralled around the pole."
The British spelling is “spiralled”; American usage usually has one l, as in “spiraled.”
To develop or increase in a rapidly escalating manner.
"Repair costs spiralled after the storm damaged the entire system."
This figurative sense is common in journalism and formal discussion of problems, conflict, and rising costs.
A small twist can become a spiral—and, figuratively, a crisis can spiral into something much larger.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does spiralled come from?
“Spiralled” is an inflected form of “spiral,” a word borrowed into English through French from Latin. The Latin adjective spiralis was derived from spira, meaning a coil or coil-like form, and ultimately relates to Greek speira, “coil” or “wreath.” Related English words include “spiracle,” an opening used by insects and other animals for breathing, and “spiracular,” describing structures associated with such openings.
Related word forms
How spiralled is actually used
The British spelling is “spiralled” and “spiralling”; American usage normally spells them “spiraled” and “spiraling.” The figurative sense is especially common in journalism and discussion of costs, conflict, or problems that are getting worse.
Easily confused with spiralled
“Spiralled” uses the British spelling with two l's, while “spiraled” uses the standard American spelling with one l.