putting an end to; bringing to a close
Figurative use derived from the theatre: the act of closing the curtain on a matter, event, or situation. Often used in contexts of resolving or concluding something deliberately.
They attempt to bring the prolonged dispute to a close.
person who opens and closes the curtains (in a theatre)
Literal theatrical role: the stagehand responsible for operating the curtain. Less common in modern usage, but still understood.
The curtain fell at the signal from the curtain operator.
事件の幕引きはまだ見えない。
The end of the incident is still not in sight.
Compound of 幕 (curtain) and 引き (pulling), from the verb 引く (to pull). Originally referred to the act of drawing a theatre curtain, later extended metaphorically to ending events.