Valve: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for a device that regulates the flow of a fluid.

• The engineer opened the valve to check the water flow
• Make sure the valve is closed before you leave

Used when referring to the capability to manage or influence the operation of machinery or processes.

• The operator used the control panel to start the machine
• You need to gain better control over the system

Specifically used for devices that maintain a constant pressure or flow. Often found in gas and liquid systems.

• The gas regulator ensures a steady flow to the burner
• The pressure regulator needs to be checked regularly

Describes the action or device used to stop the flow entirely. Can have a slight negative connotation as it implies stopping something completely.

• In case of an emergency, shut off the main valve
• The technician shut off the water supply to fix the leak

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.

• The heart has four main valves
• The water valve needs to be replaced

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.

• The flap of the envelope was not sealed properly
• Birds have flaps that help them to fly

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.

• Close the gate to prevent the dogs from running out
• We are boarding our flight at gate 17

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.

• He put a stopper in the wine bottle to keep it fresh
• The bathtub has a rubber stopper

A well-known gaming company famous for developing popular games like 'Half-Life' and 'Portal,' and for its digital distribution platform, Steam.

• Valve has been a pioneer in the gaming industry for years
• She loves playing games from Valve, especially 'Team Fortress 2
• '

A person or company responsible for creating video games, working on game design, programming, art, and testing.

• She works as a game developer at a renowned gaming studio
• As a game developer, his primary task is coding the game mechanics

A business involved in the development, maintenance, and publication of software products.

• The software company launched a new app last week
• He got a job at a leading software company specializing in cloud solutions