escape cock
- noun
- /ɪˈskeɪp kɑk/
- Archaic
:
válvula de escape
- When the steam pressure rises too high, the escape cock automatically opens to prevent an explosion.
Examples
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The escape cock released steam when pressure rose too high.
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The engineer explained the importance of the escape cock in maintaining safe operating conditions.
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The escape cock must be checked regularly to ensure it will operate under excess pressure.
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An escape cock is essential for safety in boilers.
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The escape cock must be checked regularly to ensure it will operate under excess pressure.
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The engineer explained the importance of the escape cock in maintaining safe operating conditions.
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When the steam pressure rises too high, the escape cock automatically opens to prevent an explosion.
Synonyms
114
3.9
A device that lets gas or steam leave a container
4
3.9
A device that opens automatically to let out extra pressure
1
3.7
A part on a boiler or similar machine that automatically lets out steam when pressure gets too high
A device that opens by itself to let out extra pressure and prevent explosions
A part that opens by itself to let out pressure and prevent an accident
Antonyms
Surface Forms
Morphology
Both constituents contribute directly to the meaning: 'escape' denotes release and 'cock' (in the technical sense) denotes a valve, so together they straightforwardly describe a valve that permits escape of pressure. This is a transparent, compositional formation (similar to e.g. Spanish 'válvula de escape') and would be predictable to a B1 learner who knows the constituent senses.
Etymology
The noun escape cock may come from the simple image of a small valve or tap: escape means 'to get out' and cock was a word for a small valve that lets steam or pressure 'escape' from a boiler. Because the little cock opens to release extra pressure and stop danger, the name now means a safety valve that prevents explosions.