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

Whether grabbing dinner with friends, running errands, or heading to the beach, the set is easy to throw on when keeping up with busy summer plans. —Averi Baudler, People.com, 28 July 2025

To search for color-blind remedies is, therefore, a fool’s errand. —Idrees Kahloon, New Yorker, 28 July 2025

Whether going to meetings, traveling, or just running errands, the Staci Dome Backpack has your back. —Gabriela Izquierdo, Southern Living, 26 July 2025

But petite shoppers deserve to look put-together and feel comfortable, too—during a long flight, while napping on the couch, running errands, or otherwise. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 July 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