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

Meanwhile in Savage, the city may have faced a loophole of its own. —Alex Malm, Twin Cities, 6 Feb. 2025

That was from a legal loophole with literacy and grandfather clauses involving illiterate white men. —Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 5 Feb. 2025

This stipulation, often viewed as a trade loophole, allowed exporters to send goods direct to consumers and under $800 duty free, and they were often used by companies like Temu and Shein. —Julie Coleman, CNBC, 4 Feb. 2025

These changes are a direct result of the Biden administration’s crackdown on the widespread abuse of the trade loophole. —Francisco Velasquez, Quartz, 3 Feb. 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

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