messenger

noun

mes·​sen·​ger ˈme-sᵊn-jər 

1

: one who bears a message or does an errand: such as

a

archaic : forerunner, herald

b

: a dispatch bearer in government or military service

c

: an employee who carries messages

2

: a light line used in hauling a heavier line (as between ships)

3

: a substance (such as a hormone) that mediates a biological effect

4

: messenger rna

Synonyms of messenger

• courier
• runner

Examples of messenger in a Sentence

They sent a messenger to pick up the package.

the messenger comes by twice a day to pick up packages

Recent Examples on the Web

When transiting this Air sign, the messenger planet is charming, socially fluent and reluctant to engage in conflict. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 18 Sep. 2026

Denholm had requested their presence merely as observers—messengers who would convey the verdict back to Savoy Court. — Literary Hub, 15 Sep. 2026

In much simpler terms, this nutrient-rich liquid contains growth factors, cytokines, and other proteins that act as messengers, sending signals involved in skin repair and renewal and supporting the production of collagen and elastin. — Emily Orofino, Allure, 15 Sep. 2026

As the party’s midterm messenger and finance guru, Vance’s political fortunes will be closely tied to the election's outcome. — Francesca Chambers, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English messangere, from Anglo-French messager, messanger, from message

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing messenger

• blame/shoot the messenger
• messenger bag
• messenger RNA
• messenger RNA vaccine

Kids Definition

messenger

noun

mes·​sen·​ger ˈmes-ᵊn-jər 

: one that carries a message or does an errand

Medical Definition

messenger

noun

mes·​sen·​ger ˈmes-ᵊn-jər 

1

: a substance (as a hormone) that mediates a biological effect see first messenger, second messenger

2

: messenger rna