1 a part of a tube or pipe that opens and shuts like a door to control the flow of liquid, gas, air, etc. passing through it2science, biology a part of an artery or vein that folds or closes in order to stop blood flowing back where it came from3eng. lang. arts the part on a trumpet or similar musical instrument that you press to change the sound of the note [Origin: 1400–1500 Latin valva part of a door] → see alsobivalve, safety valve