Origin: French suffix -ier
Courier has 4 different meanings across 2 categories:
a person who looks after and guides tourists
"The local courier escorted our group through the narrow alleys of the historic district, pointing out hidden gems along the way."
In plain English: A courier is someone who delivers packages or mail from one place to another quickly and safely.
"The courier dropped off the package at my front door while I was out shopping."
Usage: A courier in this specific sense refers to an employee of a travel agency or tour operator responsible for managing tourist groups, which is distinct from the more common meaning of someone delivering packages. Use this term when describing professional guide services rather than independent freelancers leading small tours.
To deliver by courier.
"The package was delivered by courier to the front porch before noon."
A monospace font that resembles the characters produced by a typewriter.
"The courier font gave his handwritten notes an authentic, vintage look."
The word "courier" entered English through two related paths: it combines the native Middle English corour (meaning a runner) with the borrowed term courier, which came via Old and Middle French from the Italian corriere. Both roots ultimately describe someone who runs or is sent to deliver messages.