loophole

1 of 2

noun

loop·​hole ˈlüp-ˌhōl How to pronounce loophole (audio)
plural loopholes
Synonyms of loophole
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
There is always a fix that no one else has thought of, a loophole to be discovered. — Jesús Rodríguez, New Yorker, 6 Sep. 2026 While college sports’ powerbrokers have been fighting the once-absurd idea of schools adding players from NFL camps, one coach has been the most visible in looking for a loophole on the other side. — Matt Baker, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026 Another area where the federations ask for oversight is the possible creation of new loopholes. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2026 Others have been accused of exploiting the relatively affordable policies to acquire residency by creating shell companies, prompting calls to plug loopholes. — Christine Miyawaki, CNN Money, 3 Sep. 2026 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

Rhymes for loophole

See All Rhymes for loophole

Browse Nearby Words

loop hinge
loophole
loop in
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Loophole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loophole. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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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

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for loophole

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