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

Since the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp for industrial purposes, some manufacturers have exploited a loophole to create compounds similar to recreational cannabis THC and sell them legally as hemp products. —Dario Sabaghi, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025

Recent updates to federal law closed those loopholes and strengthened tribal authority to make decisions regarding the return of their ancestors. —Melissa Olson, Twin Cities, 14 Sep. 2025

Because California’s regulations are some of the most stringent in the nation, the importance of identifying regulatory oversights or permitting loopholes extends far beyond the state. —Jake Goodrick, Sacbee.com, 12 Sep. 2025

The $4,000 used EV credit and a leasing loophole are also going away. —Senior Reporter, PC Magazine, 12 Sep. 2025

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

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