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ball cock

noun

: an automatic valve whose opening and closing are controlled by a hollow float at the end of a lever

Word History

First Known Use

1734, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ball cock was in 1734

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Cite this Entry

“Ball cock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ball%20cock. Accessed 30 Nov. 2025.

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