Definition of "escape-valve" [escape-valve]

• A loaded valve fitted to the end of a steam-cylinder for the escape of the condensed steam, or of water carried mechanically from the boilers with the steam; a priming-valve. (noun)

The Century Dictionary (Public Domain)

• "My last 'rant' at Friedman was about his lottery-based escape-valve special charity school with high quality education -- for a few lucky students."
• "Besides, a journal is such a good escape-valve for one's feelings!"
• "Or a fool, perhaps, for all her sonneting, for there are men who relish a weak headpiece as the chiefest ornament of women, especially when its indeterminate vagaries boast an escape-valve remotely connected with the fine arts."