loophole

1 of 2

noun

loop·​hole ˈlüp-ˌhōl How to pronounce loophole (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
According to Smithsonian Magazine, at least a dozen people are believed to have starved to death while under the supervision of Dr. Linda Hazzard, who gained a medical license through a state loophole that allowed for practitioners of alternative medicines to obtain accreditation. Sean Neumann, People.com, 5 Jan. 2025 Other states began to pass laws that strayed from that guidance and allowed loopholes for third party donors to promise money for potential student athletes. Bret Baier, Fox News, 24 Dec. 2024 The lawsuit sheds light on how large companies can use loopholes to exploit vulnerable workers in the gig economy. Francisco Velasquez, Quartz, 23 Dec. 2024 The companies have also had to contend with drug compounders encroaching on their business by exploiting a loophole that allows pharmacies to make versions of drugs in shortage . Christina Cheddar Berk, CNBC, 23 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for loophole 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of loophole was in 1591

Dictionary Entries Near loophole

Cite this Entry

“Loophole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loophole. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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