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 administration has seized on creative loopholes to continue to bottle up government spending, despite court orders pausing those efforts. —Nicholas Nehamas, New York Times, 22 Feb. 2025

That loophole, which would allow the sale of the weapons to people who complete training and background checks, was still being written and was expected for a vote shortly after midnight. —The Denver Post, 15 Feb. 2025

The focus now needs to be on closing or preparing for any potential loopholes, Gonzalez Hoy said. —Sierra Lopez, The Mercury News, 14 Feb. 2025

Trump slapped 10% tariffs on Chinese imports and ordered an end to the loophole. —Brian Slodysko, Los Angeles Times, 9 Feb. 2025

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

Rhymes for loophole

• bankroll
• bedroll
• borehole
• cajole
• catchpole
• charcoal
• condole
• control
• dipole
• downhole
• enroll
• extol

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