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

Ugg Captrail Low Sneaker Tackle long hikes, everyday errands, and everything in between with these Ugg sneakers. —Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 31 Oct. 2025

Step into the Mia Raisa Stretch Knit Flats for just $30, a versatile and comfy option for work or weekend errands. —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 31 Oct. 2025

Parents who work full time, or have a backlog of chores and other errands on their minds, might have trouble being present with their children in the evenings. —Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 29 Oct. 2025

In the video, Rosalía goes back and forth between mundane errands wihile the entire orchestra follows her around at home, at the doctor, at a coffee shop, and more. —Julyssa Lopez, Rolling Stone, 27 Oct. 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