"ballcock"的定义和意义

What is a "ballcock"?

A ballcock is a mechanical device used in toilets to control the water level in the cistern. It consists of a float ball attached to a valve, which regulates the flow of water into the tank. When the water level drops, the float ball moves downward, opening the valve to allow water to fill the cistern. Once the tank reaches the correct water level, the float ball rises, closing the valve and stopping the water flow. Ballcocks help ensure that toilets refill properly after flushing.