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

Popular among celebrities and our writers alike, Longchamp tote bags are a reliable (and stylish) option to reach for when commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a weekend trip. —Averi Baudler, PEOPLE, 23 Oct. 2025

Dream Pairs Suede Platform Slippers Easy to style and even easier to slip on, these platform slippers are perfect for airports, errands, and anything in between. —Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 23 Oct. 2025

With a smooth leather material and plenty of storage, the Emory Top Handle Bag will quickly become your daily go-to for everything from office looks to running errands, attending events, and more. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 22 Oct. 2025

Debi Dougherty and her husband were affected by the AWS fallout on nearly every stop of their Monday morning errands in and around New Albany, Indiana. —Ramishah Maruf, CNN Money, 21 Oct. 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