loose end

noun

1

: something left hanging loose

2

: a fragment of unfinished business

—usually 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

Shots • Good and nasty cold open with Harkness killing Nesmith to tie up loose ends. — Scott Tobias, Vulture, 23 Sep. 2026

The henchmen are tying up loose ends after eliminating Kerry’s father, who informed on the Gotham crew to avoid serving his prison sentence. — Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 15 Sep. 2026

For the people who loved the Detroit native and aspiring actress -- her mother, Katie Mattic, and sisters Jean Neal, Frances Douglas, Vivian Mattic and Virgie Binford -- that means tying up the loose ends of Margaret's life. — Nicole Avery Nichols, Freep.com, 11 Sep. 2026

Early in September, everything from finishing tasks to tying up loose ends takes precedence. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 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