The name is derived from the Latin word for `` snail shell '' , which in turn is from the Greek κοχλίας `` kokhlias '' ( `` snail , screw '' ) , from κόχλος `` kokhlos '' ( `` spiral shell '' ) in reference to its coiled shape ; the cochlea is coiled in mammals with the exception of monotremes .
The name is from the Greek κοχλίας `` kokhlias '' ( `` snail , screw '' ) , from κόχλος `` kokhlos '' ( `` spiral shell '' ) . This is in reference to its coiled shape : the cochlea is coiled in most mammals , monotremes being the exceptions .