Defn: In hurry and confusion; without definite purpose; irregularly.
[Colloq.]
Helter-skelter have I rode to thee. Shak.
A wistaria vine running helter-skelter across the roof. J. C. Harris.

HELVE Helve, n. Etym: [OE. helve, helfe, AS. hielf, helf, hylf, cf. OHG. halb; and also E. halter, helm of a rudder.]

1. The handle of an ax, hatchet, or adze.

2. (Iron Working) (a) The lever at the end of which is the hammer head, in a forge hammer. (b) A forge hammer which is lifted by a cam acting on the helve between the fulcrum and the head.

HELVE
Helve, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Helved; p. pr. & vb. n. Helving.]

Defn: To furnish with a helve, as an ax.

HELVETIAN
Hel*ve"tian, a.

Defn: Same as Helvetic.
— n.

Defn: A Swiss; a Switzer.

HELVETIC
Hel*ve"tic, a. Etym: [L. Helveticus, fr. Helvetii the Helvetii.]