loophole

1 of 2

noun

loop·​hole ˈlüp-ˌhōl How to pronounce loophole (audio)
plural loopholes
Synonyms of loopholenext
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
State-by-state regulations will not be enough to manage users’ rights—the patchwork of laws will create too much confusion and too many loopholes. The Editors, Scientific American, 16 Dec. 2025 The National Defense Authorization Act, currently under consideration by Congress, includes a provision that would codify the loophole that allows military aircraft to fly without broadcasting their location. Zach Wichter, USA Today, 15 Dec. 2025 Not just that, Andrew, who remains eighth in line to the throne, seems to be taking advantage of the loopholes. Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 15 Dec. 2025 But a mix of regulatory missteps by a hostile FDA and market loopholes opened the door to a wave of counterfeit and bootleg vapes, often imported from China, sold in local stores, highly addictive, and completely unregulated. Max Cunningham, Fortune, 14 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for loophole

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of loophole was in 1591

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Loophole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loophole. Accessed 20 Dec. 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

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