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

Lawmakers there are reportedly working to close that loophole. —Chloe Albanesius, PC Magazine, 18 Apr. 2026

Minor modifications could reduce loopholes. —Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 17 Apr. 2026

Due to a legal loophole, the Class of 2008 must return to high school, now in their mid-30s –– bringing with them midlife baggage and teenage angst. —Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 16 Apr. 2026

Closing this loophole would generate new revenue not simply to grow the government, but to increase investments in the same things Fair Share has already started delivering in Massachusetts. —Senator Ed Markey, Boston Herald, 15 Apr. 2026

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

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