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

Yet between travel, laundry, errands, kids’ games and headlines that spark concern, the day can potentially feel less like a recharge and more like another kind of work. —Dilan Gomih, Forbes.com, 29 June 2025

This mini tennis dress features a square neckline and subtle front slit for style points, but reviewers attest the soft, flattering fabric is just as good for a workout dress that’s comfortable for both tennis and lounging or running errands. —Lauren Alexis Fisher, Footwear News, 27 June 2025

Maggie Slepian has cycled thousands of miles on bikepacking trips as well as running errands on her bike in town. —Maggie Slepian, Travel + Leisure, 26 June 2025

These seven-inch yoga shorts sit mid-thigh and are an excellent option for yoga classes or running errands. —Nora Colomer May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 24 June 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