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

No rest for the weary (or, in her case, the never-worn), Maxine straightens her unblemished aqua blue attire, hustles her heeled feet over to the receiver, and picks up a fresh piece of gossip — gossip that sends her scurrying back out on her next errand. —Ben Travers, IndieWire, 12 Nov. 2025

Tee My wardrobe relies on lightweight T-shirts for travel, lounging, and running errands, but the frequent use means these classic pieces tend to wear down quickly. —Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 11 Nov. 2025

What begins as a desperate errand becomes a haunting journey through fear, love, and survival. —Essie Assibu, Variety, 11 Nov. 2025

October in New York City brings chilly weather, and these leggings were perfect for a stroll or running errands. —Jenifer Calle, Glamour, 11 Nov. 2025

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

Rhymes for errand

• gerund

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