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

Dress these boots up to go to the office or out to dinner, or down to wear casually running errands. —Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 4 Dec. 2025

Additionally, Google Wallet and Google Maps seamlessly integrate into daily errands. —PC Magazine, 3 Dec. 2025

The set is made of a stretchy material that’s comfy for lounging at home, running errands, or traveling. —Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE, 2 Dec. 2025

Sweatshirt dresses, like this one from UVN are easy to throw on for running errands or attending a house party. —Julia Fields, Southern Living, 1 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