n 1  :  a curving or doubling of a line so as to form a closed or partly open curve within itself through which another line can be passed  2 a  :  something (as an anatomical part) shaped like a loop - see LOOP OF HENLE LIPPES LOOP   b  :  a surgical electrode in the form of a loop  3  :  a fingerprint in which some of the papillary ridges make a single backward turn without any twist  4  :  a wire usu. of platinum bent at one end into a small loop (usu. four millimeters in inside diameter) and used in transferring microorganisms .
 
 
 
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