loose end

American  

noun

1. a part or piece left hanging, unattached, or unused.

   Remind me to tack down that loose end on the stairway carpet.

2. an unsettled detail, as of a business matter.

   The arrangements have been made, except for a few loose ends.

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idioms

1. at loose ends, in an uncertain or unsettled situation or position: Also at a loose end.

   Ever since leaving the company, he's been at loose ends.

loose end British  

noun

1. a detail that is left unsettled, unexplained, or incomplete

2. without purpose or occupation

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Etymology

Origin of loose end

First recorded in 1540–50

Example Sentences

In fact, I’m still tying up some loose ends.

From Salon

“To Kill a Cook” is a decadent treat, with enough loose ends in Bernice Black’s life and career to leave readers hungry for more.

From Los Angeles Times

Six workers still not back and so many loose ends to tie up before 7:00.

From Literature

They flickered into my mind like the loose end of a movie reel.

From Literature

It would make no sense to leave so many loose ends, from missiles and production facilities to nuclear sites at Pickaxe Mountain and the Isfahan tunnels.

From The Wall Street Journal