tail end (of something)

tail end (of something)

1. The rearmost part of something. Don't hold your breath—you're at the tail end of the list of applications.

2. The last or concluding part of something. The famous author only appeared at the tail end of the panel.

See also: end, tail

tail end

1. The rear or hindmost part, as in Douglas was at the tail end of the academic procession. [Mid-1700s]

2. The very end, the conclusion, as in Only at the tail end of his speech did he thank his sponsors. [Mid-1800s]

See also: end, tail

the tail end of something

The tail end of something is the last part of it. He listened to the tail end of a discussion about the new virus. It was the tail end of another year.

See also: end, of, something, tail

(at) the tail ˈend (of something)

(at) the final or last part (of something): I didn’t hear most of the conversation — I only came in at the tail end.

See also: end, tail