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

Closing loopholes that allowed sometimes large apartment buildings in backyards under the guise of accessory dwelling units. —Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 May 2026

Their owners used to claim a loophole in the state’s gambling laws. —Jeff A. Chamer may 15, Charlotte Observer, 15 May 2026

But federal estate tax revenue has barely budged over the last few decades due to loopholes. —Nathaniel Meyersohn, CNN Money, 15 May 2026

In the case of Measure E, city officials appear to have benefited from a loophole in that precedent, having budgeted $40 million in revenue from an unnamed parcel tax last year. —Shomik Mukherjee, Mercury News, 15 May 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