coil
coil1 / koil/ • n. a length of something wound or arranged in a spiral or sequence of rings: a coil of rope. ∎ a single ring or loop in such a sequence. ∎ a roll of postage stamps, esp. one for use in a vending machine. ∎ a slow-burning spiral made with the dried paste of pyrethrum powder, which produces a smoke that inhibits mosquitoes from biting. ∎ (often the coil) an intrauterine contraceptive device in the form of a coil. ∎ an electrical device consisting of a length of wire arranged in a coil 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 length of wire or piping wound in circles or spirals.• v. [tr.] arrange or wind (something long and flexible) in a joined sequence of concentric circles or rings: he began to coil up the heavy ropes he coiled a lock of her hair around his finger. ∎ [intr.] move or twist into such an arrangement or shape: smoke coiled lazily toward the ceiling.coil2 • n. archaic or dial. a confusion or turmoil.