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

Normal mode is fine for commuting and running errands, but those seeking a bit more performance will want to select Sport mode. —Michael Harley, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025

In addition to being a travel essential, this long-sleeve shirt is ideal for outdoor activities like jogging, hiking, and running errands. —Rachel Trujillo, Travel + Leisure, 11 Sep. 2025

Here’s why the whole enterprise might be a fool’s errand. —Ethan Siegel, Big Think, 9 Sep. 2025

What might feel harmless in the moment, like teasing someone, chatting about lunch plans or venting about a frustrating errand, can suddenly reappear in a recap email sent to the whole group. —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 9 Sep. 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