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 Roman, life these days means taking care of her toddler, running errands, hosting friends, and getting everything ready for her new shop in Brooklyn Heights. — Anna Grace Lee, Vogue, 25 Sep. 2026

The Practical Economics of Alternative Mobility Taking a car on short local runs – whether running quick errands, commuting across town, or heading to a local transit station – comes with hidden overheads. — New Atlas, 22 Sep. 2026

This no-fuss peplum tee and flare pants combo is so chic for everyday errands. — Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 20 Sep. 2026

The relaxed silhouette makes the set a natural choice for slow days at home, but reviewers say its versatile design works just as well for running errands, office days, and travel. — Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 19 Sep. 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