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

Prediction markets, which have been called a ‘legal loophole,’ and daily fantasy sports apps give Texans a way to have financial skin in the big game. —Eric Prisbell, Dallas Morning News, 6 Feb. 2026

Project Panama capitalized on that loophole. —James Folta, Literary Hub, 6 Feb. 2026

Wiener’s bill seeks to expand the definition of what counts as a transit station and close the loophole. —Calmatters, Oc Register, 5 Feb. 2026

The Buckley case spawned other loopholes from Congress and the courts over the years, directly culminating in the 2010 atrocity of the Citizens United case. —Orlando Sentinel, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Feb. 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