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

When the goonies discover their hiding place, the Fratellis plot to snuff out this loose end, causing them to literally dig deeper into the house with the criminals hot on their trail.

From Salon • Jun. 7, 2025

"We're tying up that loose end as we speak."

From BBC • Jan. 16, 2025

One loose end, Sasselov acknowledges, is that RAO has only been shown to lead to the synthesis of two of RNA’s four nucleotides, cytosine and uracil.

From Science Magazine • Jun. 13, 2023

When the net dips, players tug on the loose end of the rope to pull it back up.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 4, 2022

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

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu