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

This past week, however, Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Kash Patel told the United States Senate that his agency is exploiting a loophole to gather information on Americans. —The Editorial Board, Oc Register, 22 Mar. 2026

The other loophole provides up to 63 days of darkness for the identities of police officers who claim to be crime victims themselves. —Martin Dyckman, The Orlando Sentinel, 22 Mar. 2026

Dean said California closed several loopholes in 2015. —Joe Rubin, Sacbee.com, 21 Mar. 2026

Private businesses operate poker rooms through a legal loophole. —Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 20 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