relief valve

American  

noun

1. a device that, when actuated by static pressure above a predetermined level, opens in proportion to the excess above this level and reduces the pressure to it.

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Example Sentences

"Combined storm overflows are a pressure relief valve for the wastewater network," NI Water's Director of Engineering and Sustainability Gary Curran explained.

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2024

The interest forgiveness would be a one-time benefit, but would be the largest relief valve in the plan.

From New York Times • Apr. 8, 2024

Then they hit $56.01 in June and $63.03 in September, both times triggering supplemental auctions meant to act as a relief valve to steady prices.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 8, 2023

For now, state officials have sought to limit the lake’s rise by opening a rarely used relief valve, diverting floodwaters from the Kern River into the California Aqueduct.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 27, 2023

Nelka felt it would help her forget and would act as a relief valve for her feelings.

From Nelka Mrs. Helen de Smirnoff Moukhanoff, 1878-1963, a Biographical Sketch by Moukhanoff, Michael