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

On January 30, the 38-year-old pop star was photographed running an errand in a classic white t-shirt and baggy blue jeans, unbothered by the way her relaxed denim pooled around her thin flip-flops. —Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 31 Jan. 2026

If a group project bumps into a family errand, simplifying your plans could avoid further clashes. —Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 31 Jan. 2026

Then grab these yoga pants made of buttery soft, stretchy material that's ideal for lounging, traveling, and running errands. —Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE, 30 Jan. 2026

Wear them to the gym, on walks, while running errands, or just lounging around the house. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Jan. 2026

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