double helix

noun Biochemistry, Genetics.

the spiral arrangement of the two complementary strands of DNA.

Origin of double helix

First recorded in 1953; term introduced by J.D. Watson and F.H.C. Crick

Words nearby double helix

double fracture, double fugue, double glazing, double gloucester, double harness, double helix, double hitch, double ikat, double in brass, double indemnity, double integral

British Dictionary definitions for double helix

double helix

noun

biochem the form of the molecular structure of DNA, consisting of two helical polynucleotide chains linked by hydrogen bonds and coiled around the same axis

Medical definitions for double helix

double helix

n.

The coiled structure of a double-stranded DNA molecule in which strands linked by hydrogen bonds form a spiral configuration. DNA helix Watson-Crick helix

Scientific definitions for double helix

double helix

The three-dimensional structure of double-stranded DNA, in which polymeric nucleotide strands whose complementary nitrogen bases are linked by hydrogen bonds form a helical configuration. The two DNA strands are oriented in opposite directions.

Cultural definitions for double helix

double helix
[ (hee-liks) ]

The shape taken by the DNA molecule. A helix is a three-dimensional spiral, like the shape of a spring or the railing on a spiral staircase. A DNA molecule consists of two helixes intertwined.