First Known Use: 1579
Dictionary
courier
noun cou·ri·er \ˈku̇r-ē-ər, ˈkər-ē-, ˈkə-rē-\
: a person whose job is to carry messages, packages, etc., from one person or place to another
: a business that is used to send messages, packages, etc.
: a person who is employed by a travel company and whose job is to help people who are on holiday
Full Definition of COURIER
1
: messenger: as a : a member of a diplomatic service entrusted with bearing messages b (1) : an espionage agent transferring secret information (2) : a runner of contraband c : a member of the armed services whose duties include carrying mail, information, or supplies
2
: a traveler's paid attendant; especially : a tourists' guide employed by a travel agency
See courier defined for English-language learners
See courier defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of COURIER
Middle French courrier, from Old Italian corriere, from correre to run, from Latin currere
Related to COURIER
- Synonyms
- bootlegger, contrabandist, smuggler, runner
COURIER Defined for Kids
courier
noun cou·ri·er \ˈku̇r-ē-ər, ˈkər-\
Definition of COURIER for Kids
Learn More About COURIER
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up courier? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).