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

It can be worn more casually for errands or a quick lunch out, but can just as easily be dressed up for evening out thanks to its luxe suede material. —Megan Schaltegger, InStyle, 21 Feb. 2026

Maybe someone is heading to a shift near downtown, running errands along Loop 820, or carrying groceries up apartment stairs. —Matt Emma, USA Today, 17 Feb. 2026

These cozy pants are a comfy option for traveling, running errands, or channel surfing on your couch. —Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 17 Feb. 2026

In the United States, car ownership is often necessary for commuting to work, taking children to school, running errands, and more. —Lyssanoel Frater, IndyStar, 17 Feb. 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