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

The actor was photographed out in New York City once again running some errands and braving the relentless chill, relying on a rotation of reworn pieces that included a blue lumberjack-check shirt and oversized leather jacket. —Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 14 Feb. 2025

My three favorite moves to set the tone involve no extra spending or errands: Go on low-power mode. —Kendra Vaculin, Bon Appétit, 11 Feb. 2025

Whether chasing your toddler at the park or running errands around town, the baggy fit gives you plenty of room to sit, bend, and walk without feeling restricted. —Laura Lu, Parents, 10 Feb. 2025

The victim’s mother, after returning home from running errands, found the body in a master bedroom closet where home medical supplies are located. —Alex Malm, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 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