Valve Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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valve
[ˈvælv ]
Definitions
mechanical device
A valve is a mechanical device that controls the flow of fluid or gas. It can be used to start, stop, or regulate the flow of a substance.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| valve |
General term for a device that regulates the flow of a fluid.
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| control |
Used when referring to the capability to manage or influence the operation of machinery or processes.
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| regulator |
Specifically used for devices that maintain a constant pressure or flow. Often found in gas and liquid systems.
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| shut off |
Describes the action or device used to stop the flow entirely. Can have a slight negative connotation as it implies stopping something completely.
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Examples of usage
- The plumber installed a new valve to control the water flow in the pipes.
- She turned the valve to release the pressure from the tank.
anatomy
In anatomy, a valve is a structure that controls the flow of blood in a vein or heart. Valves prevent backflow and ensure the blood flows in one direction.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| valve |
Use this word when referring to a mechanical device that controls the flow of liquid, gas, or air through a pipe or to a similar device in the body that controls the flow of blood.
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| flap |
Use this word to describe a flat, flexible piece of material that can be moved to open or close something, or for a part that hangs loose and is attached by one side.
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| gate |
This term works best when referring to a movable barrier used to block an entrance, or to describe an access point in fencing or in an airport.
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| stopper |
Use this word to talk about an object or device used to block the opening of a container, typically a bottle, to prevent the flow of liquid or gas.
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Examples of usage
- The heart has four valves that regulate the flow of blood.
- Venous valves help prevent the backflow of blood in the veins.
video games
In video games, a valve is a software development company known for popular titles like Half-Life and Counter-Strike.
Synonyms
game developer, software company.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| valve |
A well-known gaming company famous for developing popular games like 'Half-Life' and 'Portal,' and for its digital distribution platform, Steam.
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| game developer |
A person or company responsible for creating video games, working on game design, programming, art, and testing.
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| software company |
A business involved in the development, maintenance, and publication of software products.
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Examples of usage
- Valve released a new game on Steam last week.
- Fans are eagerly waiting for the next project from Valve.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In biology, heart valves ensure blood flows in the correct direction, preventing backflow and maintaining circulation.
- Valves are crucial in engines too, helping control the intake of air and fuel mixtures for combustion.
- In physics, valves regulate the movement of gases in experiments and industrial processes, essential for safety and efficiency.
Technology
- Modern technology uses electronic valves in systems like computers and robotics to manage air and fluids accurately.
- In infrastructure, large-scale valves are essential in water treatment facilities to maintain safe and clean water distribution.
- Valves have evolved with technology, from simple mechanical designs to advanced smart valves that can be controlled remotely.
Pop Culture
- In the realm of animation, characters might use valves humorously as 'magic doors' to deliver liquids or jokes.
- The imagery of valves often appears in steampunk aesthetics, symbolizing the metaphorical control over technology and nature.
- Movies and video games have featured villainous plots involving the manipulation of valves to unleash disasters or explosions.
Health
- Valves in the human body, such as heart and vein valves, are critical for maintaining proper circulation, highlighting the body's engineering.
- Medical professionals perform valve replacements for patients with heart conditions, showcasing advancements in biology and technology.
- Research in medicine has focused on developing artificial valves to help patients with heart diseases, improving quality of life.
Origin of 'valve'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Latin word 'valva', meaning 'fold' or 'flap', because valves often function like flaps that open and close.
- The word has been used in English since the late 14th century, originally referring to mechanical devices.
- In the 17th century, the term expanded to describe anatomical structures in the human body that regulate blood flow.
The word 'valve' comes from the Latin word 'valva' which means 'door' or 'folding leaf'. The concept of valves has been used for centuries in various mechanical and biological systems. The modern understanding and development of valves have greatly contributed to areas such as engineering, medicine, and technology.