Loop"hole` (?), n.

1. Mil.

A small opening, as in the walls of fortification, or in the bulkhead of a ship, through which small arms or other weapons may be discharged at an enemy.

2.

A hole or aperture that gives a passage, or the means of escape or evasion.

<-- 3. (Fig.) (Law) An amibiguity or unintended omission in a law, rule, or contract which allows a party to circumvent the intent of the text and avoid its obligations under certain circumstances. -- used usually in a negative sense; -- distinguished from "escape clause" in that the latter usually is included to deliberately allow evasion of obligation under certain specified and foreseen circumstances. -->

 

© Webster 1913.