strange loop

American  

[streynj loop] / ˈstreɪndʒ ˈlup /

noun

1. Logic, Mathematics. a phenomenon created by the presence of self-referential statements in a complex logical or mathematical system, which renders the system incapable of proving all of the true statements it produces.

2. a speculative model of how the self emerges as the source of thought, operating seemingly in a closed loop of its own mental representations of reality, while at the same time, paradoxically, being grounded in and generated from a purely physical loop of neurons and stimuli.

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Etymology

Origin of strange loop

First recorded in 1960–65 as a phenomenon in physics

Example Sentences

But Gretchen is stuck in a strange loop, unable to escape this place and becoming increasingly battered in the process.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 9, 2024

Escher provides a striking image of a strange loop in his famous drawing of two hands drawing each other.

From Scientific American • Sep. 20, 2021

And once it was married to this strange loop structure, I knew what I was chasing.

From Slate • Aug. 24, 2020

In fact, one of his most-loved works may complete a strange loop.

From Washington Times • Mar. 6, 2015

Once it stopped, curving back its glistening body in a strange loop as though in readiness to spring—but it soon resumed its course, and arrived at the High Priestess's feet.

From Ardath by Corelli, Marie