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 long flights, hectic afternoons running errands, or cozy days spent on the couch, check out the Scuba Mid-rise Oversized Joggers. —Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 23 June 2026

Pair it with sleek fashion sneakers and a structured leather bag for a cool-girl running errands look. —Isabel Bekele, InStyle, 23 June 2026

But for her parents, Dylan and Esmeralda Howard, the moment wasn't really about the errand at all. —Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 23 June 2026

This chic lounge set is perfect for both running errands and relaxing on the porch, while this versatile sundress is ready for beach trips, backyard weddings, and garden parties. —Kate Donovan, Southern Living, 22 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