loose end

noun

1
: something left hanging loose
2
: a fragment of unfinished business
usually used in plural
tying up loose ends

Examples of loose end in a Sentence

We still have one more loose end to deal with before we're finished with the project.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Twist the two loose ends at the top of the towel once each to make its ears. Veronica Bravo, USA Today, 20 May 2025 The settlement ties one of the remaining loose ends of Worrell’s previous administration. Cristóbal Reyes, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 May 2025 Fans were loud in their disappointment of the concluding storyline, with clamours for a further season to tie up loose ends, and UK press has previously indicated a seventh season is secretly in the works. Caroline Frost, Deadline, 3 May 2025 In what was intended to be a final pre-trial hearing to wrap up any loose end in the case that could see Combs behind bars for life if found guilty, Judge Arun Subramanian nudged solidifying the jury until Monday morning. Dominic Patten, Deadline, 9 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for loose end

Word History

First Known Use

1546, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of loose end was in 1546

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Loose end.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loose%20end. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

loose end

noun
1
: something left hanging loose
2
: a piece of unfinished business
tying up loose ends
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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