Loop and loupe are two words that are pronounced in the same manner but are spelled differently and have different meanings. They are homophones. We will examine the definitions of loop and loupe, where these words came from and some examples of their use in sentences.
A loop is a curve, whether in a road, rope, hair or other item. Loop may also mean a curve in a route one takes, a skating maneuver or an audio or video tape that runs in a continuous repetition. The word loop may be used as a noun or a verb, related words are loops, looped, looping, looper. The exact origin of the word loop is unknown, though it may be related to the Gaelic word lùb which means bend.
A loupe is a small jeweler’s magnifying glass, that is also used by watchmakers and gemologists. Loupe is a borrowed or loan word taken from the French. A borrowed or loan word is one that has been taken from another language and used as an English word. The plural form is loupes.
Examples
Dale Shaheen, telecommunications and 911 coordinator for Hancock County, told the county commissioners Tuesday that the effort to get “joint use permits” for the shared fiber optic loop project with Findlay and the city school district has taken longer than expected, which has delayed completion of the work. (The Courier)
After hikers and mountain bikers debate how to spend their mornings and afternoons in North Cheyenne Cañon, they often decide on a loop trail that crosses Mount Buckhorn. (The Colorado Springs Gazette)
Douglas Bilodeau, owner of Douglas Auctioneers on Routes 5 and 10, looked at a green gemstone necklace through a jewelry loupe. (The Recorder)