Pronunciation: [hˈɛltə] (IPA) 
The word "helter" is spelled with the letters H-E-L-T-E-R. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈhɛltər/. This word is often used as part of the phrase "helter-skelter," meaning in a disorderly or chaotic way. The origin of this phrase comes from an old amusement ride called the Helter Skelter, which featured a spiraling slide. The word "helter" can also refer to a device used for straightening and sorting wool fibers.
Helter is a noun that is most commonly used to refer to a spiral or winding stairway, often found in old buildings or towers. This term is predominantly used in British English and is sometimes used interchangeably with the word "helix."
The word "helter" can also be extended to encompass a broader meaning. In this context, it can denote a winding or twisting path or road. For instance, it can describe a twisting mountain road or a meandering river path. The term tends to evoke a sense of the path being convoluted, perhaps difficult to navigate or follow due to its curved and unpredictable nature.
Additionally, "helter" can be utilized idiomatically in British English to describe a state of confusion, disorder, or chaotic movement. When used in this sense, it often appears in the phrase "helter-skelter," which suggests a tumultuous or disorderly rush. This expression can be applied to depict a confused or disorderly situation, or to describe hasty and reckless movement or behavior.
Overall, "helter" is a versatile term that can refer to a spiral or winding stairway, a winding path or road, or be used idiomatically to convey a state of confusion or disorder.
The word "helter" is derived from the Middle English term "heltyr" which meant "to turn or twist". This Middle English word is an alteration of the word "helte", meaning "to incline or slope". Ultimately, the etymology of "helter" traces back to the Old English word "hweolter" which meant "to roll, turn, or twist". The origins of "helter" can be linked to the Indo-European root "*kwel-" which had the same meaning of "to turn" and has given rise to numerous related words in various languages.
