loophole

1 of 2

noun

loop·​hole ˈlüp-ˌhōl 

plural loopholes

1

: a means of escape

especially : an ambiguity or omission in the text through which the intent of a statute, contract, or obligation may be evaded

2

a

: a small opening through which small arms may be fired

b

: a similar opening to admit light and air or to permit observation

loophole

2 of 2

verb

loopholed; loopholing; loopholes

transitive verb

: to make loopholes in

Examples of loophole in a Sentence

Noun

She took advantage of a loophole in the tax law.

His attorney has been hunting for a loophole that would allow him to get out of the deal.

tried to close a loophole in the new legislation

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

As most women spent no more than two to five years at these hotels, the establishments that remained after this legislation was passed may have been exempt from the act via this loophole. —Scarlett Harris, Architectural Digest, 31 Oct. 2024

This loophole has led several digital health companies, online pharmacies, and wellness spas to produce and sell cheaper versions of brand-name weight loss drugs during recent shortages. —Bruce Gil, Quartz, 30 Oct. 2024

Tenant advocates see the remodel exemption as a loophole that lets owners evict longtime tenants in order to raise rents. —Paloma Esquivel, Los Angeles Times, 30 Oct. 2024

One potential loophole in the Canadian model lies in its reliance on data-sharing: short-term rental operators that choose non-traditional methods to find boarders may be able to dodge reclassification and the additional tax. —Andrew Leahey, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun

loop entry 3

First Known Use

Noun

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Verb

1664, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

loophole

noun

loop·​hole

ˈlüp-ˌhōl

1

: a small opening

especially : one in a wall through which firearms may be discharged

2

: a way of escaping something

especially : a way of avoiding a law or regulation