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.
Radio Flyer’s Flyer Loop is designed specifically for parents to cart their kids around on errands or to school. — Matt Alderton, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 Many Laredo residents cross the border to run errands, taking advantage of lower grocery prices and a favorable exchange rate on the Mexican side of the river. — Justin Papp, CNBC, 14 Oct. 2026 Running errands and a real estate con What follows comes from the referee’s report and the probable cause affidavits after Morin and Corcoran’s arrests. — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 11 Oct. 2026 But Jenner proved that easy-to-wear shoes aren’t just for running errands. — Melony Forcier, InStyle, 11 Oct. 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
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Cite this Entry

“Errand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/errand. Accessed 20 Oct. 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

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