errand

noun

er·​rand ˈer-ənd 

ˈe-rənd

1

a

: a short trip taken to attend to some business often for another

was on an errand for his mother

b

: the object or purpose of such a trip

2

archaic

a

: an oral message entrusted to a person

b

: embassy, mission

Examples of errand in a Sentence

He was sent out on an urgent errand.

We were there on an errand of mercy to help provide medical care for the refugees.

Recent Examples on the Web

From walking tours to running errands, shoes that offer noticeable cushioning and support are valuable assets to your wardrobe, and nobody does it quite like Dr. Scholl’s. —Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 3 June 2024

That’s just a fool’s errand and a great way to ensure this season is anything but charmed. —Dieter Kurtenbach, The Mercury News, 1 June 2024

However, she has recently been spotted out with her family and solo running errands, sources recently told PEOPLE. —Janine Henni, Peoplemag, 30 May 2024

Team it with sneakers and a crossbody bag for a day of running errands, or throw it on with strappy sandals for last-minute happy hours with friends. —Averi Baudler, Peoplemag, 23 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English erend message, business, from Old English ǣrend; akin to Old High German ārunti message

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Phrases Containing errand

• errand boy
• fool's errand

Kids Definition

errand

noun

er·​rand ˈer-ənd 

: a short trip taken to do or get something especially for someone else

also : the object or purpose of such a trip