volute

n. [ F. volute (cf. It. voluta), L. voluta, from volvere, volutum, to roll. See Voluble. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Zool.) A spiral turn, as in certain shells. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Zool.) Any voluta. [ 1913 Webster ]

Volute spiring, a spring formed of a spiral scroll of plate, rod, or wire, extended or extensible in the direction of the axis of the coil, in which direction its elastic force is exerted and employed. [ 1913 Webster ]