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

Enter this breathable maxi dress, which is comfortable and functional enough to run errands in, while still being stylish enough for hosting brunch or packing for a beach vacation. —Paige Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 May 2026

Plus, the sporty design goes well with jeans and a T-shirt for running errands, or with joggers for a comfy tank top for a put-together morning walk outfit. —Rylee Johnston, PEOPLE, 9 May 2026

Swapping in a slouchy leather tote instantly elevates your outfit while still being just as functional for running errands, grabbing lunch, or heading out for coffee. —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 9 May 2026

NeighborRun, a hyperlocal errand-sharing platform. —Gabriel Alin Zainescu, Forbes.com, 9 May 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