Stopcock: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฐ
stopcock
[หstษpkษk ]
Definition
plumbing device
A stopcock is a valve used to control the flow of liquid or gas through a pipe. It is particularly common in plumbing applications, allowing users to turn the water supply on or off. The design of a stopcock may vary but typically includes a handle that, when turned, opens or closes the valve. Maintenance of stopcocks is essential to prevent leaks and ensure efficient operation. Users often need to know the location of stopcocks in their plumbing systems to quickly address any emergencies.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Please turn off the stopcock before you start the repair.
- The plumber replaced the old stopcock with a new one.
- He checked the stopcock to ensure it was fully closed.
- In case of a burst pipe, you must locate the stopcock immediately.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'stopcock' originates from Middle English, combining 'stop,' meaning to block, and 'cock,' which refers to a valve or tap.
- The term has been in use since the 15th century, reflecting its long-standing importance in plumbing and control of water flow.
Engineering
- Stopcocks are crucial in plumbing systems, allowing quick shut-off of water supply for repairs or emergencies.
- The design of the stopcock has evolved, with modern versions featuring materials that resist corrosion and wear, ensuring reliability.
- Some stopcocks are equipped with timers or sensors, contributing to water conservation efforts in smart home systems.
Cultural Usage
- In plumbing lore, the stopcock is considered the 'heart' of a household's water system, as it controls the flow to every faucet.
- In the United Kingdom, everyone has access to a stopcock in their home, making it a common topic of conversation during DIY plumbing discussions.
Safety
- Knowing where the stopcock is located in your home can prevent water damage, especially during a leak or flood.
- Plumbing experts recommend checking and exercising the stopcock periodically to ensure it functions properly when needed.
Comparison with Other Valves
- Unlike gate valves, which can be slow to open and close, stopcocks provide more immediate control over water flow.
- Some people confuse stopcocks with shut-off valves; however, a stopcock is typically a manual valve that requires physical operation.
Translations
Translations of the word "stopcock" in other languages:
๐ต๐น torneira
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฐเฅเคเคจเฅ เคตเคพเคฒเคพ เคจเคฒ
๐ฉ๐ช Absperrventil
๐ฎ๐ฉ keran
๐บ๐ฆ ะบัะฐะฝ
๐ต๐ฑ zawรณr
๐ฏ๐ต ในใใใใณใใฏ
๐ซ๐ท robinet d'arrรชt
๐ช๐ธ grifo
๐น๐ท musluk
๐ฐ๐ท ์ฐจ๋จ ๋ฐธ๋ธ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุตู ุงู ุงูุชุญูู
๐จ๐ฟ uzรกvฤr
๐ธ๐ฐ uzรกver
๐จ๐ณ ้้จ
๐ธ๐ฎ ventil
๐ฎ๐ธ loka
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะพาัะฐัั ะบะปะฐะฟะฐะฝั
๐ฌ๐ช แฉแแแแขแแแก แแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ dayanacaq kranฤฑ
๐ฒ๐ฝ grifo