water seal

British  

noun

1. a small amount of water contained in the trap of a drain to prevent the passage of foul smells

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Example Sentences

Their multi-scale suction mechanism is an organic combination of mechanical conformation and regulated water seal.

From Science Daily

Before you turn the water on or flush a toilet, the drain pipes, beyond the water seal in your P-traps, are filled with air.

From Seattle Times

One said: “Don’t take it out of the water. Seal the area, turn it into a tourist attraction and open it up to the world.”

From The Guardian

When it’s time to eat, they pour in the boiling water, seal the bag, then tuck it into a coat or a beanie to keep things hot.

From New York Times

There are traditional donabe for soups and stews, a grill version and even a stovetop smoker with a water seal to keep the smoke from invading your kitchen.

From Los Angeles Times