Crossword Genius

Valves when turned sprayed droplets (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

spat

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'sprayed droplets' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both to do with contact as well as being past participle verbs.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for spat that I've seen before include "Minor argument" , "Old-fashioned legwear" , "cross words" , "Old leg wear - brief quarrel" , "Unimportant quarrel between Pats" .)

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