at loose ends

Uneasy, typically due to some problem or unresolved issue. I've been at loose ends since that fight with my mother. I hope he finds a job soon—he's been at loose ends ever since getting laid off.

See also: end, loose

*at loose ends

restless and unsettled; unemployed. (*Typically: be ~; leave someone ~.) Just before school starts, all the children are at loose ends. Jane has been at loose ends ever since she lost her job.

See also: end, loose

at loose ends

not knowing what to do esp. because of some upsetting change He was at loose ends when their long-term relationship broke up.

Etymology: based on the idea of a string or rope with ends that are not neatly tied together

See also: end, loose

at loose ends

In an unsettled or uncertain situation. For example, This whole visit has left me feeling restless, constantly at loose ends, or Jane couldn't find a job this year and so is at loose ends for the summer. [Mid-1800s]

See also: end, loose

at loose ends

mod. nervous and anxious; bored with nothing to do; unemployed. Tom usually works puzzles whenever he’s at loose ends.

See also: end, loose

at loose ends

Without a clear purpose or regular occupation; unsettled in one's affairs: "At loose ends with family gone ... I joined some clubs thinking to find companionship and enrich my life" (Ruth Daniels).

See also: end, loose

Common Names:

Name	Pronounced	Usage
Uilleag	-	Irish
Beracha	-	Hebrew
Ernestine	['ə:nəsti:n]
Vinson	['vinsn]
Veronica	[və'rɔnikə]
Ada	['eidə]