When we're at a loose end, it means little (3)
I believe the answer is:
wee
'little' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)
'when we're at a loose end it' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'when' could be 'e' (I've seen this in other clues) and 'e' is found within the answer.
'it' could be 'e' ('e' can mean 'electronic' which is similar to 'IT') and 'e' is found in the answer.
A single letter 'w' remains which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This may be the basis of clue (or it may be nonsense).
'means' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for wee that I've seen before include "(Scots) little" , "It's small in Scotland" , "Tiny (Scot)" , "squeal" , "Little (Scottish)" .)