American Dictionary of the English Language

CARACOL, noun

1. In the manege, a semi-round, or half turn which a horseman makes, either to the right or left. In the army, the cavalry make a caracol after each discharge, in order to pass to the rear of the squadron.

2. In architecture, a staircase in a helix or spiral form.

CARACOL, verb intransitive To move in a caracol; to wheel.