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
Unfortunately, the law that enshrines this principle—the Posse Comitatus Act—is riddled with loopholes. Elizabeth Goitein, Time, 27 Sep. 2025 The pending statewide initiative measure, the Local Taxpayer Protection Act (LTPA) to Save Proposition 13, restores the state constitution to its original meaning by closing the Upland loophole. Jon Coupal, Oc Register, 27 Sep. 2025 The audit concluded that the district relied on a loophole to bypass a competitive bidding process, using an exemption that allows revenue-generating contracts under $50,000 to proceed without formal solicitation. Miami Herald, 24 Sep. 2025 The tax was expected to rise to 4% and was meant to ensure rich corporations and people paid their fair share, to improve tax fairness and to reduce the deficit by closing loopholes. Medora Lee, USA Today, 24 Sep. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Loophole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loophole. Accessed 8 Oct. 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

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