safety valve

noun

1. a device that, when actuated by a gas or vapor pressure above a predetermined level, opens and allows the gas or vapor to escape until its pressure is reduced to a pressure equal to or below that of the predetermined level.

2. a harmless outlet for emotion, tension, etc.

safety valve

noun

1. a valve in a pressure vessel that allows fluid to escape when a predetermined level of pressure has been reached

2. a harmless outlet for emotion, energy, tension, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of safety valve¹

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

The control room sent a message to the emergency response center requesting more batteries so they could open the safety valves and vent the extra steam.

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ObamaCare could soon became a safety valve for underwater cities.

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Banks have more regularly tapped a Fed lending facility designed as a safety valve that lets them exchange securities for reserves, offering another sign of reserves becoming less ample.

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In that incident, the board’s investigation found multiple safety failures, including a severely eroded safety valve that allowed flammable gases to dangerously seep into unwanted areas.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

A safety valve had been removed from the pipes for maintenance.

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