valves
Pronunciation: [vælvz]
Context: "mechanics"
(noun) a device that controls the flow of liquids or gases in a system. Valves open and close to let something through or to stop it. Think of a valve like a door that can open to let water in or close to keep it out.
Example
The plumber installed a new valve to control the hot water flow.
Example
The valve was stuck closed, so no water could come through the pipe.
Example
Can you show me where the valve is located in the plumbing system?
Context: "biology"
(noun) a part of the heart that helps blood flow in the right direction. Just like how a valve in pipes helps to control water, heart valves make sure blood doesn’t flow backward.
Example
The doctor explained how the heart valves work to pump blood efficiently.
Example
When a heart valve doesn’t close properly, it can cause serious health problems.
Example
What happens if one of the heart valves is not working correctly?
Context: "music"
(noun) a small device on brass instruments, like trumpets, that changes the pitch of the sound. Valves allow musicians to create different notes by opening and closing them.
Example
He pressed the valves on his trumpet to play a beautiful melody.
Example
If the valves are stuck, the trumpet will not sound right.
Example
How do you use the valves to play higher notes on the instrument?