/beem"endz'/ , n.pl.
1. Naut. the ends of the transverse deck beams of a vessel.
2. on her beam-ends , Naut. heeled so far on one side that the deck is practically vertical: The schooner was blown over on her beam-ends.
3. on one's or the beam-ends , Slang. in desperate straits, esp. financial straits.
Also, on the beam's ends .
[ 1765-75 ]