noun
errand
EH-ruhnd
Errand (noun) means a short trip made to complete a specific, usually minor, task. Example: “She ran a few errands before lunch, like posting a letter and picking up groceries.”
noun
1
A short trip made to complete a specific, usually minor, task.
"She ran a few errands before lunch, like posting a letter and picking up groceries."
"He sent his assistant on an errand to buy stamps."
How to use errand
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA small task that requires going somewhere to complete, like shopping or dropping something off.
Common pairings
run errands
go on an errand
errand boy
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like errand.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- errands
- Third person singular
- errands
- Past tense
- erranded
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She ran a few _____ before lunch, like posting a letter and picking up groceries.
Etymology
From Old English ǣrende, meaning "message" or "mission" — originally something you were sent to do or deliver.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “errand” mean?
The word “errand” means a short trip made to complete a specific, usually minor, task. In plain terms, a small task that requires going somewhere to complete, like shopping or dropping something off.
How do you pronounce “errand”?
“Errand” is pronounced EH-ruhnd (/ˈɛɹənd/ in IPA).
How do you use “errand” in a sentence?
Here is “errand” used in a sentence: “She ran a few errands before lunch, like posting a letter and picking up groceries.”
What part of speech is “errand”?
“Errand” is a noun.
Where does the word “errand” come from?
The word “errand” comes from Old English. From Old English ǣrende, meaning "message" or "mission" — originally something you were sent to do or deliver.
