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Loop Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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loop

[luːp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in programming

A sequence of instructions that is continually repeated until a certain condition is reached.

Synonyms

cycle, iteration, repetition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
loop

Used primarily in programming to execute a block of code multiple times.

  • The for loop iterates through the array.
  • I created a loop to perform the calculations.
iteration

Typically used to refer to a single pass through a sequence of operations, often in the context of repetitive tasks or improvements.

  • We're on the third iteration of the software.
  • In each iteration, the design gets closer to the final product.
cycle

Employed when referring to a series of events that repeat regularly.

  • The water cycle is essential for the environment.
  • The company goes through a financial cycle every quarter.
repetition

Commonly used when referring to something being repeated in a general sense, can be negative if overdone.

  • Her speech was full of unnecessary repetition.
  • Repetition is a key element in effective learning.

Examples of usage

  • The program used a loop to iterate through the list of items.
  • She implemented a loop to check for errors in the code.
Context #2 | Noun

in music

A repeated section of music.

Synonyms

repeat, riff, sequence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
loop

Commonly used in everyday contexts to describe a circular or curved shape in general, such as a part of a roller coaster or a shape made with a string.

  • The roller coaster had so many loops that I lost count.
  • She tied the ribbon in a neat loop.
repeat

Used to indicate that an action, phrase, or event is done again multiple times. It can be used in daily life, instructions, or in musical contexts.

  • Please repeat what you just said.
  • The teacher had to repeat the instructions several times.
  • The band's chorus was so catchy they decided to repeat it in the song.
riff

Commonly used in music to describe a short, repeated sequence of notes or chords that forms a key part of the composition. It has a slightly informal and musical connotation.

  • The guitarist played a cool riff that everyone loved.
  • She improvised a riff during her solo performance.
sequence

Often used to describe an ordered set of events, numbers, or steps. It is more formal and systematic, suitable for academic, technical, or procedural contexts.

  • The sequence of numbers is generated by the algorithm.
  • Follow the sequence of steps to complete the recipe.

Examples of usage

  • The song had a catchy guitar loop.
  • The DJ added a drum loop to the track.
Context #3 | Verb

informal

To perform a task or activity repeatedly.

Synonyms

cycle, repeat, replay.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
loop

Used in programming to refer to a sequence of instructions that repeats until a specific condition is met. Also used more generally to describe a continuous, repeating circuit or path.

  • The while loop will continue until the condition is false.
  • The video played in a loop all night.
repeat

Suggests doing something again. It can refer to actions, phrases, or sequences and is used in everyday conversations and instructions.

  • Can you repeat the last thing you said?
  • They had to repeat the experiment to verify the results.
replay

Used in the context of watching or reviewing something again, often media like videos or game footage.

  • Let's replay the last few moments of the game to see what happened.
  • You can replay this song as many times as you like.
cycle

Describes a series of events or processes that repeat in the same order. Commonly used in scientific, industrial, and natural contexts.

  • The water cycle is essential for Earth's ecosystem.
  • The washing machine is in its final rinse cycle.

Examples of usage

  • She looped the video to watch it again.
  • He likes to loop his favorite song.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In geometry, loops can represent circles or curved lines, often used in calculations and designs.
  • A loop in mathematics also refers to a function that returns to its starting point, demonstrating cycles in calculations.

Technology

  • In computer programming, a loop allows a set of instructions to be repeated until a specific condition is met.
  • Loops are foundational in coding languages, enabling efficient processing and automation in software development.

Music

  • In music, a loop refers to a repeating section of sound or rhythm, allowing artists to create layers in their compositions.
  • Many modern genres use loops to build catchy beats and melodies, making songs more engaging.

Culture

  • The concept of a loop can be found in various cultural stories and myths, representing cycles of life, death, and rebirth.
  • In fashion, the 'loop' can refer to a design element, as seen in looped fringes or stitches in clothing.

Origin of 'loop'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'hlēap', which means to leap or jump, showing the idea of going around.
  • In Middle English, it evolved to 'lupe', representing a physical loop or twist in ropes and strings.

The word 'loop' originated from the Old English word 'hlōp' meaning a running, leap, or spring. It has evolved over time to be used in various contexts, from programming to music and informal activities. The concept of a loop, as a repetitive sequence, is fundamental in many fields, providing efficiency and structure to processes.

See also: looped, loophole, looping.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,938, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.