loophole

1 of 2

noun

loop·​hole ˈlüp-ˌhōl How to pronounce loophole (audio)
plural loopholes
Synonyms of loopholenext
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
Congress hasn’t officially declared war since World War II, but presidents have used a string of legal loopholes for military action without going to Congress. Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 2 Mar. 2026 There are 34 outstanding bills, including sweeping social media restrictions for minors, a revival of language closing the marijuana loophole and legislation to scrap low-earning college degrees. Marissa Meador, IndyStar, 28 Feb. 2026 The amendment opens up a gaping loophole so that even if a county has a print publication, a government could deem the paper not sufficient and instead publish the notice on their own website, perhaps a hidden page only accessed with a specific and obscure URL. The Denver Post Editorial Board, Denver Post, 28 Feb. 2026 Does Congress need a second phase of legislation to close the loopholes in the Epstein Files Transparency Act? Nik Popli, Time, 28 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loophole

Word History

Etymology

Noun

loop entry 3 + hole entry 1

First Known Use

Noun

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Verb

1810, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of loophole was in 1591

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Loophole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loophole. Accessed 3 Mar. 2026.

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

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