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

Fall is full of holiday events, busy errands, and our personal favorite, cozy lounging. —Gabriela Izquierdo, Southern Living, 30 Sep. 2025

Wiholl Cap-Sleeve Top and Wide-Leg Pants Lounge Set Wear this cozy lounge set on its own around the house, with a sweatshirt over for long road trips, or with a cardigan to run errands. —Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 27 Sep. 2025

In June, all the way across the pond, Kendall Jenner stuffed a pair of blue mid-rise jeans into light brown cowboy boots while running errands in Los Angeles. —Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 23 Sep. 2025

The open lapel neckline and double front pockets add style and functionality to this coatigan, which can be worn over T-shirts, blouses, jeans, and dress pants for days in the office, dinners out, or weekends spent running errands around town. —Carly Totten, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Sep. 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