loose end

noun

1
: something left hanging loose
2
: a fragment of unfinished business
—usually used in 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The governor has the power to call the legislature back to wrap up the loose ends or even open a new debate. — Irene Wright, USA Today, 17 June 2026 The Full Moon later asks you to rest instead of carrying every loose end alone. — Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 29 June 2026 Your perceptive nature senses a family need, household issue, or emotional loose end that should be handled before bigger plans move forward. — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 26 June 2026 Other loose ends from previous seasons include Rhaena’s quest to tame a wild dragon and the status of Rhaenyra’s youngest children who were sent away for their safety. — Tracy Brown, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for loose end

Word History

First Known Use

1546, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of loose end was in 1546

Rhymes for loose end

See All Rhymes for loose end

Browse Nearby Words

loose cover
loose end
loose fit
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Loose end.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loose%20end. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

loose end

noun
1
: something left hanging loose
2
: a piece of unfinished business
tying up loose ends
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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