Definition

Noun: 1. A small remaining piece or part; the very end of something: This refers to the final, often insignificant or leftover portion of an object, material, or period of time. It implies something that is left over after the main part has been used or has passed. 2. A fragment or scrap: Specifically, it can denote a small, torn, or cut-off piece of material like cloth or paper.

Usage

The term "tag end" is used to describe the last, smallest, or least important part of something. It often carries a connotation of being residual or of little value compared to the whole. It is typically used in singular form.

Examples

• We used every bit of fabric, right down to the tag ends.
• He arrived at the tag end of the meeting, missing all the important discussions.
• She saved the tag ends of yarn for a small knitting project.

Advanced Usage

• "The tag end of the year": A figurative use referring to the final days of a calendar year.
  • We always do our financial review at the tag end of the year.
• "Tag end of a conversation": Refers to overhearing or catching only the final, incomplete part of what someone was saying.
  • I only caught the tag end of their conversation as I walked by.

Variants and Related Words

• Tag (noun): A label or attached piece. While related, "tag" alone does not carry the specific meaning of a leftover fragment.
• End (noun): The final part. "Tag end" is a more specific idiom emphasizing the small, residual nature of that final part.

Synonyms

• Remnant
• Scrap
• Fragment
• Leftover
• Stub
• Tail end

Antonyms

• Whole
• Main part
• Beginning
• Bulk

Related Phrases

• Odds and ends: A collection of small, miscellaneous items, often including tag ends.
  • The box was full of odds and ends like buttons and tag ends of ribbon.

Noun

1. a small piece of cloth or paper