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

Schnapp also spoke to PEOPLE about the series ending, insisting that all loose ends had been tied — even his character’s longstanding crush on his best friend Mike (Wolfhard). —Angel Saunders, PEOPLE, 7 Jan. 2026

After a procession of midseason cliffhangers, shows like ABC's High Potential, NBC's Chicago Fire, and Fox's Doc are back this week to tie up loose ends. —Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 5 Jan. 2026

And is the ending really as peaceful as meets the eye, or did the Duffer Brothers (who also wrote and directed the finale) leave a couple strategic loose ends? —Yohana Desta, Rolling Stone, 4 Jan. 2026

Her updo featured an adorably imperfect bun, with loops and loose ends, secured lower on the back of her head. —Marci Robin, Allure, 26 Dec. 2025

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