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Definition of errand

errand

/ˈɛr.ənd/
er · rand
Plural:errands
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errand Lexical Profile

errand Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A short journey undertaken in order to deliver or collect something, or to perform a routine task, often on someone else's behalf.

Example

"She spent Saturday morning running errands around town, including picking up groceries and dropping off the dry cleaning."

2

The purpose or object for which a short trip or mission is undertaken.

Example

"Once they arrived at the magistrate's office, the messenger stated his errand clearly."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for errand

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse the noun "errand" (a short trip to complete a task) with the adjective "errant" (wandering or straying from the proper course).

• Rhymes for errand

• Nearby Words

eroticism
eroticize
err
errand
errant
errata
erratic

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English "ærende", meaning a message, mission, or piece of business, derived from Proto-Germanic "*airundija-". Despite its spelling, it is unrelated to the Latin verb "errare" (to wander).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Errand. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/errand
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