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

Ideal for elevated ensembles and everyday errand looks alike, the bottoms will serve as a cornerstone in your summer wardrobe. — Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 21 July 2026

Projecting how a college quarterback will pan out often proves a fool’s errand, despite how many people have dedicated their livelihoods to trying. — Antonio Morales, New York Times, 21 July 2026

Nike’s most sophisticated cushioning to date will get you outside and hitting PRs in no time, also functioning at its prime from the gym to the errand run. — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 20 July 2026

Choosing not to hand over a phone during errands doesn’t mean every outing is easy. — Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 20 July 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