messenger
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for messenger, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A person (or, historically, animal or vehicle) whose job is to carry messages between people.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use messenger
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French messagier (from message), with an extra "n" that crept in the way it did in similar words like "passenger" and "scavenger".
Full origin of messenger →Frequently asked questions
What does “messenger” mean?
The word “messenger” means a person (or, historically, animal or vehicle) whose job is to carry messages between people. In plain terms, someone (or something) whose job is to carry and deliver messages.
How do you pronounce “messenger”?
“Messenger” is pronounced MEHS-uhn-juh (/ˈmɛs.ən.d͡ʒɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “messenger” in a sentence?
Here is “messenger” used in a sentence: “A bike messenger delivered the contract across town in twenty minutes.”
What part of speech is “messenger”?
“Messenger” is a noun.
Where does the word “messenger” come from?
The word “messenger” comes from Old French. From Old French messagier (from message), with an extra "n" that crept in the way it did in similar words like "passenger" and "scavenger".
Is “messenger” a common word?
“Messenger” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “messenger” have?
“Messenger” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person (or, historically, animal or vehicle) whose job is to carry messages between people.
What is the difference between a "messenger" and a "courier"?
A "messenger" carries messages or information between people and historically ran errands on foot or horseback. A "courier" typically delivers physical parcels, documents, or goods, often as a commercial service; both, however, carry something from sender to recipient.
What is the difference between "messenger" and "message"?
A "message" is the piece of information being communicated, while a "messenger" is the person, app, or means that carries or delivers it. The saying "don't shoot the messenger" warns against blaming the bearer for the news itself.
What are common types of "messenger"?
Traditionally a messenger was a person, or even an animal such as a carrier pigeon, employed to carry messages. Today "messenger" also refers to apps and programs used for sending instant messages online.