Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Volute \Vo*lute"\, n. [F. volute (cf. It. voluta), L. voluta,
   from volvere, volutum, to roll. See {Voluble}.]
   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}.

   2. (Zo["o]l.) A spiral turn, as in certain shells.

   3. (Zo["o]l.) Any voluta.

   {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.