ends

The word “ends” means plural of end — the final points, purposes, or extremities of something. In plain terms, plural of "end" — the tips or edges of something, or informally, one's neighbourhood or cash.

“Ends” is pronounced ehndz (/ɛndz/ in IPA).

Here is “ends” used in a sentence: “The rope was frayed at both ends.”

“Ends” is a noun.

“Ends” is a very common word in modern English.

“Ends” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: plural of end — the final points, purposes, or extremities of something.

This phrase uses ends to mean goals or purposes, and means to mean the methods used to reach them. It suggests that a worthwhile outcome can excuse questionable actions taken to achieve it. The saying is often debated, because many people believe some methods are wrong no matter the goal.

To make ends meet means to earn just enough money to cover your basic expenses. The phrase pictures the two ends of a budget, income and outgoings, being stretched until they meet. Someone struggling to make ends meet has barely enough to pay for essentials like rent and food.

As a plural noun, ends can refer to the physical extremities of something, such as the two ends of a rope. It can also mean goals or purposes, as in 'political ends'. Informally, 'odds and ends' means assorted small items. The right meaning depends on the surrounding context.