The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Volute \Vo*lute"\, 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]