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

His pro-working-class mantras focused on affordability and child and health care support funded by enforcing corporate tax code while closing loopholes exploited by billionaires registers politically to the left of Thompson, a moderate Democrat. —Jake Goodrick, Sacbee.com, 27 Mar. 2026

However, California legislators have considered going after the Montana loophole in the past. —Erik Shilling, Robb Report, 27 Mar. 2026

At least 20 lawsuits have been filed by states and gaming regulators arguing that prediction markets offer a gambling loophole and should be state-regulated. —Justin Papp, CNBC, 26 Mar. 2026

The Cowboys took advantage of this loophole during their Thanksgiving victory over the Chiefs last season. —Antwan Staley, New York Daily News, 25 Mar. 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