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

For quick errands or working around the house, the EasySpirit Women’s Traveltime (now 35 percent off) is a sneaker-clog hybrid that features excellent cushioning and comes in a range of vibrant colors. —Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 10 Jan. 2026

Whether commuting for work or running errands, Dana is a carryall with ample space for essentials (think phone, keys, wallet, and sunglasses), along with a 13-inch laptop, water bottle, makeup, portable charger, lightweight jacket, snacks, and a notebook. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Jan. 2026

Browse through our seven favorite pairs, below, to wear from weekend errands to casual dinners, with prices starting at $30. —Michelle Rostamian, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026

On the way, the big institutions still loom just off the route—Saks on Fifth, Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale’s, the kind of department-store gravity that turns a quick errand into a half-day. —Paul Jebara, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 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