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

Every Tuesday, Bright Beginnings Children Centre in St Sampson's hosts a free stay-and-play session for parents at a loose end as to what to do with their little ones.

From BBC • Jul. 24, 2025

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

When Luthen fails, it’s left to Kleya to tie up his final loose end and then deliver vital information to the rebels on Yavin.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2025

This left him at a loose end, as he’d already decided to take a break from commercial directing to focus on feature films.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 7, 2023

Didu reclaims her sofa spot and the loose end of her white sari floats across my lap.

From "You Bring the Distant Near" by Mitali Perkins