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

The community continues their day-to-day errands around us, harvesting sugar cane and stoking fires for cooking. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026

Even better, these sleek shoes act as closet chameleons, blending seamlessly with everything from office outfits to errands ensembles without issue. —Averi Baudler, PEOPLE, 2 June 2026

Whether your plans include a day at the beach, sightseeing around a new city, or simply running errands, the right pair of pants can quickly become your go-to summer outfit essential. —Kate Donovan, Southern Living, 2 June 2026

Bras offer medium-level support with a triple layer front, designed for activities like yoga, hiking, barre, traveling, gardening, stretching and running errands. —ABC News, 1 June 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