looper

[ loo-per ]

noun

1. a person or thing that loops something or forms loops:

   The strands of wire are coiled by an automatic looper.

2. 1. the larva of any geometrid moth, such as the hemlock looper; inchworm.
   2. cabbage looper ( def ).
3. a hook-shaped mechanism in a sewing machine that enables stitching by drawing the upper and lower threads together.
4. Baseball. blooper ( def 3a ):

   He was robbed of an RBI looper by the speediest shortstop in the league.

ˈlooper

/ ˈluːpə /

noun

1. a person or thing that loops or makes loops
2. another name for a measuring worm

Word History and Origins

Origin of looper¹

First recorded in 1725–35; loop ¹ + -er ¹

Example Sentences

In 2019, Corteva reported that genes for proteins found in maidenhair ferns could protect soybeans from soybean looper and velvetbean caterpillars, and since then both groups have sharpened their focus on ferns.

From Science Magazine

Cleveland had runners at second and third with one out when Josh Naylor hit a looper to center field that Yankees outfielder Aaron Hicks appeared to catch with a sliding grab.

From Washington Times

His caddie, Billy Foster, one of the longest-serving and most popular loopers in Europe, removed the flag from the 18th pin.

From Washington Times

Open win Sunday also marked a breakthrough for one of the most popular loopers in the game.

From Seattle Times

Troubled by cabbage loopers chewing on your brassicas?

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• bloop
• blooper
• looper
• pop-up