safety valve

== English == === Alternative forms === safety-valve === Pronunciation === (Received Pronunciation) IPA(key): /ˈseɪftɪ ˌvælv/ (General American) IPA(key): /ˈseɪfti ˌvælv/ Rhymes: -ælv Hyphenation: safe‧ty valve === Etymology 1 === From safety +‎ valve. ==== Noun ==== safety valve (plural safety valves) A valve set to open at a pressure below that at which a container holding a gas, vapour, etc. (such as a boiler or pressure cooker), would burst, thus reducing the pressure; a relief valve. (by extension) A valve set to close a container holding a gas or vapour to prevent excessive loss of pressure. (figuratively) Any mechanism offering relief from physical or emotional pressure or tension. Synonyms: outlet, release (US, law) A United States law, codified at 18 United States Code §3553(f), authorizing a judge to disregard mandatory minimum sentences for some criminals with few or no prior offenses. ===== Hyponyms ===== ===== Derived terms ===== ===== Translations ===== === Etymology 2 === See safety-valve. ==== Verb ==== safety valve (third-person singular simple present safety valves, present participle safety valving, simple past and past participle safety valved) Alternative form of safety-valve. === References === === Further reading === safety valve on Wikipedia.Wikipedia