(n.)1. a system widely used in Europe to keep certain substances from touching the ground, floor, etc... As of 2009, has not crossed the pond to the United States.
(n.)2. a device able to modulate at low levels consisting of plastic (static free), paper like products (including post-it notes, legal paper, computer paper etc...) in a box or circular form. Used mainly to keep long, flowing objects in place (garland, tinsel, etc...).
1). Five different Italian families are believed to have invented the system know as the "modulator valve."
2.) "Wow", said Jane, "that modulator valve keeps the tinsel from hanging down and tree looks so much more beautiful."
Used to describe a selfish person. Commonly used by navy machinists. If a person goes to a vending machine and doesn't ask anyone if they want anything.
"Hey shipmate, how's the soda?" Thank's for not asking me if I want anything. Fuckin' check valve."
"Hey look at that nub over there eating McDonald's. I'm not signing that check valves qual card."