courier

The word “courier” means a person or company that delivers messages, documents, or packages, often quickly or directly. In plain terms, someone (or some company) whose job is delivering things fast, or the act of sending something that way.

“Courier” is pronounced KUU-ree-uh (/ˈkʊɹ.i.ɚ/ in IPA).

Here is “courier” used in a sentence: “A courier dropped off the contract at noon.”

Depending on how it is used, “courier” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “courier” comes from Old French. From Old French coreor (an agent noun of corir, "to run") merging with Middle French courrier, itself from Italian corriere — all ultimately about someone who runs or travels to deliver something.

“Courier” is an uncommon word in modern English.

“Courier” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person or company that delivers messages, documents, or packages, often quickly or directly.

A courier typically delivers documents or packages quickly and directly, often the same day, sometimes hand-carrying a single item from sender to recipient. A mail carrier, by contrast, delivers standard postal mail on a fixed route as part of a larger batch, usually through a national postal service rather than a dedicated point-to-point service.

Use "courier" when speed and directness matter, such as for urgent legal documents, medical samples, or same-day parcels, since the word implies a fast, often personal delivery. "Delivery service" is a broader term that can include slower, scheduled, or bulk shipments where speed is not the main selling point.

Yes, courier can function as a verb meaning to send something by courier, as in "We couriered the contract over this morning." This usage is common in British English and in business contexts where speed of delivery is being emphasized.