loop
UK[luːp]US[luːp]
n
a shape like a curve or circle made by a line curving right round and crossing itself
n
a piece of rope, wire, etc. in the shape of a curve or circle
n
a set of instructions in a computer program that are repeated again and again until a particular condition is satisfied
v
to form or bend something into a loop
v
to move in a way that makes the shape of a loop
Etymology
The word 'loop' first appeared in Middle English, with its origins shrouded in some uncertainty. It is most likely derived from Middle Irish 'lúb', meaning a bend or a loop, which may itself have Celtic roots. An alternative theory suggests a possible, though unproven, connection to the Old Norse 'hlaup', meaning a leap or a run, which could metaphorically relate to a coil of rope. The core semantic concept of a 'bend' or 'something folded back on itself' has remained remarkably stable from its first recorded use to its modern applications in computing and aviation.
Analysis
The word 'loop' is a simplex word of uncertain, possibly Germanic or Celtic origin. It does not contain separable, productive morphemes in modern English.
Examples
The road makes a wide loop around the lake.
She tied the rope in a secure loop.
The program uses a loop to process each item in the list.