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ONAD→safety valve

safety valve

Flag: gbEnglishOxford New American Dictionary
safety valve /ˈsāftē ˌvalv, ˈseɪfti ˌvælv /
▸ noun a valve opening automatically to relieve excessive pressure, especially in a boiler.
▪ a means of giving harmless vent to feelings of tension or stress:
laughter may be a safety valve that reduces tension.