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

Much of the penultimate episode is about tying up loose ends and spending some wholesome time together before the eliminations inevitably begin, and … honestly, everyone is just getting along pretty well. — Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 11 July 2026

The Full Moon later asks you to rest instead of carrying every loose end alone. — Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 29 June 2026

Your perceptive nature senses a family need, household issue, or emotional loose end that should be handled before bigger plans move forward. — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 26 June 2026

While the eight-episode storyline largely followed a single — and, in true Bear fashion, exceptionally chaotic — dinner service at the titular restaurant, its hour-long finale made sure to wrap up any loose ends and share a little insight on where its food family is headed. — Emlyn Travis, Entertainment Weekly, 26 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1546, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for loose end

• apprehend
• comprehend
• condescend
• dividend
• recommend
• resuspend
• amend
• append
• ascend
• attend
• backend
• befriend

Kids Definition

loose end

noun

1

: something left hanging loose

2

: a piece of unfinished business

tying up loose ends