Helms

Helms is the plural of helm, a term with several uses in ships, leadership, and as a surname. In nautical contexts, a helm is the equipment used to steer a vessel, typically the steering wheel or tiller, and the person in charge of steering is described as handling the helm. The phrasing "to take the helm" denotes assuming responsibility or leadership, and "the helm" can refer to the position of command on a vessel or organization. Modern ships use mechanical and electronic means of steering, but the term remains in use in both historical and contemporary contexts.

As a surname, Helms is of English origin and has been borne by various individuals. The most widely recognized bearer in public life is Jesse Helms (1921–2008), an American politician who served as a U.S. senator from North Carolina for several decades. Other people with the surname Helms have made contributions in fields such as academia, the arts, and sports.

Geographically, there are few widely known places named Helms, and the term more commonly appears in literature and historical documents describing seafaring, navigation, and leadership. In cultural usage, Helms appears in literature and film as a surname or descriptive label for characters associated with control or guidance.

This concise overview covers the main senses of Helms. For specific individuals or places, consult targeted biographical or geographical references.