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

The report outlined specific actions, such as closing the loophole in the 2018 farm bill that legalized delta-8 THC and clarifying that all forms of THC are subject to regulation under the Controlled Substances Act. —Marin Cogan, Vox, 4 Nov. 2024

But chief among the loopholes, Roth said, is that the E-Verify requirement doesn’t extend to undocumented immigrants who already have jobs. —Seth Freed Wessler, ProPublica, 29 Oct. 2024

What loopholes in their architectures may exist, to be exploited by traders whose skills have been honed on Wall Street? —George Calhoun, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024

With this loophole, players will be able to access the game on Oct. 24 at 4 a.m. Arizona Time. —Meredith G. White, The Arizona Republic, 23 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