válvula
“válvula” means “valve” in Spanish (mechanical or biological device that controls flow).
valve
Also: outlet / relief
📝 In Action
La válvula del neumático tiene una pequeña fuga de aire.
A2The tire valve has a small air leak.
El cirujano reparó la válvula del corazón con éxito.
B1The surgeon successfully repaired the heart valve.
Para Juan, correr es una válvula de escape para el estrés del trabajo.
B2For Juan, running is an outlet for his work stress.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: válvula
Question 1 of 3
What does 'válvula de escape' mean in a figurative sense?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'valvula', which is a smaller version of 'valva', meaning the leaf of a folding door.
First recorded: 17th century (in a scientific context)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'válvula' used for plumbing?
Yes, it is the standard word for any mechanical valve that controls water flow in pipes.
Is there a verb form of this word?
No, Spanish doesn't have a direct verb like 'to valve'. Instead, we use 'poner una válvula' (to put a valve) or 'regular' (to regulate).
Can I use 'válvula' for a lightbulb?
No. While they look similar in some contexts (like old vacuum tubes called 'válvulas de vacío'), a standard lightbulb is a 'bombilla'.