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.
The only loose ends are Irving (John Turturro) and Burt, who Irving finds in his apartment, reading through his notes. Erik Kain, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025 Cell phone data is still pending, and the case is still officially considered an open investigation until all loose ends are tied up, but the timeline is considered fully established by officials. Brian Welk, IndieWire, 7 Mar. 2025 To find him, Matt follows the not-dead cop home and listens to him arranging to track and kill the loose end — then shows up at Nicky’s house to warn him in advance and send him off to get protection from Cherry at Fort Tryon Park. Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 4 Mar. 2025 Except that this finale left too many loose ends dangling, solved mysteries incoherently and lost all dramatic propulsion from earlier episodes. Kelly Lawler, USA TODAY, 4 Mar. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Loose end.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loose%20end. Accessed 28 Mar. 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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