sticky end

noun

Genetics, Biotechnology.

1. a single-stranded end of DNA or RNA having a nucleotide base sequence complementary to that of another strand, enabling the two strands to be connected by base pairing: produced in the laboratory with the use of restriction enzymes for genetic engineering purposes.

sticky end

noun

1. informal,  an unpleasant finish or death (esp in the phrase come to or meet a sticky end )

Word History and Origins

Origin of sticky end¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

Despite the social media teasers showing celebrities with pots of jam from Meghan, the previous brand name American Riviera Orchard seems to have reached a sticky end.

Read more on BBC

But the vehicle nearly met a sticky end.

Read more on BBC

His record label boss "didn't get me", and he was advised not to release a song called Parents, in which a homophobic father meets a sticky end.

Read more on BBC

You've been performing Space Man all over Europe… but it nearly came to a sticky end, didn't it?

Read more on BBC

The vest is notable for its stains but whether they are the marks of a sticky end or the contents of a terrified king’s stomach remains unclear.

Read more on The Guardian