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

Kate Spade New York Liv Small Flap Crossbody Crossbody bags are clever hands-free options for traveling and running errands. —Claire Harmeyer, PEOPLE, 26 Dec. 2025

And will your errands be interrupted by extra closures? —Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 25 Dec. 2025

It’s made from breathable cotton with just a touch of stretch, offering light support without digging in—excellent for lounging, running quick errands, and even sleeping. —Malia Griggs, Glamour, 25 Dec. 2025

The holiday season brings out dozens of holiday-specific hustles, from wrapping packages and running errands to hanging lights or serving appetizers and drinks at Christmas and Hanukkah parties. —Kathy Kristof, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Dec. 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