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
Proponents of the 2023 legislation argued that Austin was using a loophole in the state’s tax code to pay for light rail. Ella McCarthy, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025 Crowley got the ship approved as a Jones Act vessel only after finding a loophole—a 1996 law that allows ships built abroad before 1996 to be used in Jones Act trade. Christopher Helman, Forbes.com, 28 July 2025 Many nursing homes have found loopholes and exploited a lack of financial transparency to avoid legal judgments and accountability. Chicago Tribune, 23 July 2025 When the credit-trading program was approved in 2023, multiple environmental groups said the system would create a loophole that would allow the state’s biggest polluters, such as the Suncor refinery in Commerce City, to buy their way out of making serious greenhouse gas reductions. Noelle Phillips, Denver Post, 20 July 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

More from Merriam-Webster on loophole

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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