public works

plural noun

: works (such as schools, highways, docks) constructed for public use or enjoyment especially when financed and owned by the government

Examples of public works in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Plans call for a new skateboard park to be constructed at the southwest corner of Second and Nelson streets, just across the street from Teddy Bear Park, said Shawn Sanders, the city’s director of public works. —Mary Divine, Twin Cities, 7 Apr. 2025

Baltimore elected leaders need to better supervise a public works agency that too often treats its workers with contempt. —Baltimore Sun Editorial Board, Baltimore Sun, 6 Apr. 2025

The ordinance, said Council President Ellen Kapitan, D-At-large, sets standards and requirements for contractors submitting bids to perform construction work on public works projects, and is an extension of the city’s current ordinance. —Philip Potempa, Chicago Tribune, 3 Apr. 2025

Dargan was serving as chief operating officer for the city of Houston’s public works office in 2022, when he was recruited by Gloria. —Jeff McDonald, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for public works

• ironworks
• masterworks
• waterworks
• artworks
• breastworks
• brickworks
• earthworks
• fireworks
• frameworks
• gasworks
• glassworks
• headworks

Kids Definition

public works

plural noun

: works (as schools, highways, or docks) constructed with public funds for public use