safety valve

/ˌseɪfti ˈvælv/

Other forms: safety valves

Definitions of safety valve

1. noun

   a valve in a container in which pressure can build up (as a steam boiler); it opens automatically when the pressure reaches a dangerous level
   synonyms: escape, escape cock, escape valve, relief valve

   type of:

   regulator

   any of various controls or devices for regulating or controlling fluid flow, pressure, temperature, etc.

   valve

   control consisting of a mechanical device for controlling the flow of a fluid