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
Age verifications and parental controls come with notorious loopholes. — Jonathan Vanian, CNBC, 30 Aug. 2026 As the Cowboys try to figure out which outside linebackers to keep on the roster going into Sunday, they may have just been afforded a loophole to keep Sam Williams and Marist Liufau. — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Aug. 2026 But lawmakers, consumer advocates and addiction experts increasingly see this as a loophole that could endanger younger adults’ personal finances and mental health, CNN previously reported. — Marshall Cohen, CNN Money, 28 Aug. 2026 Abbott has exposed one of several loopholes in extradition laws that are likely to lead to more conflict between states in the future, said Ethan Lowens, a fellow at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School. — CBS News, 28 Aug. 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 1 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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