errand

noun

er·​rand ˈer-ənd How to pronounce errand (audio)
ˈe-rənd
Synonyms of errand
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Perfect for running errands, getting lunch with friends, and long-haul flights, these pants are your new summer wardrobe staple. — Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2026 This is a fan favorite for date nights, everyday errands, and travel, and the fresh peach multi-floral print is a hit for summertime. — Sarah Scott, Southern Living, 3 July 2026 Send the message that clears a delay, then keep directions specific before leaving home or starting errands. — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 6 July 2026 Work demands, errands or health concerns could be overwhelming your mental bandwidth, especially if every task seems to be urgent. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for errand

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of errand was before the 12th century

Phrases Containing errand

Rhymes for errand

See All Rhymes for errand

Browse Nearby Words

errancy
errand
errand boy
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Errand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/errand. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

errand

noun
er·​rand ˈer-ənd How to pronounce errand (audio)
: a short trip taken to do or get something especially for someone else
also : the object or purpose of such a trip

More from Merriam-Webster on errand

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for errand

Nglish: Translation of errand for Spanish Speakers

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