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

Free service is offered to Jordan residents who are age 55 and up and the program allows riders to do weekly grocery shopping, banking, run errands and pick up supplies. —Laurie Hartmann, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025

Style them with a sweater and sneakers while running errands, or take after the actress by dressing them up with a blazer and platform shoes. —Averi Baudler, People.com, 7 Feb. 2025

The Apron Dress comes in a trendy-but-timeless leopard print and has a high neckline, scoop back combo that’s perfect for running errands or hitting the pickleball court. —Sarah Felbin, SELF, 6 Feb. 2025

Depending on Trump’s demands, even states that are traditional U.S. partners could conclude that signing any deals with the United States is a fool’s errand because, eventually, Trump will issue even stronger demands in the future. —Daniel Depetris, Chicago Tribune, 6 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

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