Pronunciation: [wˈa͡ɪndɪŋ ˈʌp at] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "winding up at" can be confusing because of the pronunciation of "winding." The correct spelling is with an "i" rather than an "e" because "winding" in this case is pronounced with a short "i" sound, represented in the International Phonetic Alphabet as /ˈwaɪndɪŋ/. The phrase "winding up at" means reaching a destination or ending up in a particular place after a journey or a series of events.
"Winding up at" is a colloquial expression that refers to the result or final destination of a process or journey. This phrase is commonly used to describe the conclusion or end point of a sequence of events or actions, often expressing surprise, unexpected outcomes, or unintended consequences.
In a literal sense, "winding up at" can describe physically arriving or ending up in a particular place or location after a series of movements or directions. For instance, if someone intends to go to a specific store but ends up in a completely different one, they could say, "I don't know how it happened, but I wound up at this random store instead."
Figuratively, "winding up at" is used to convey an unexpected or undesired outcome after a series of events or decisions. It implies that the current situation or result was not initially intended or anticipated. For example, if someone started a business venture with high hopes and hard work, but it eventually fails and they end up bankrupt, they might say, "I never imagined I would wind up at this point of financial ruin."
Overall, "winding up at" highlights the surprise or irony of an unexpected result or destination, whether it be literal or metaphorical, and encapsulates the idea of concluding or ending up in a place or situation that contrasts with initial expectations or intentions.
