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

For Naperville, staff estimate lost grocery tax dollars could mean a $6.5 million annual hit to the city’s general fund, which pays for such things as police and fire protection, public works, transportation, engineering and development, according to city budget reports. —Tess Kenny, Chicago Tribune, 13 June 2025

This potentially includes such things as parks, public works and even the renowned Torrey Pines courses. —Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 June 2025

The agreement also calls for a $700 million public works borrowing bill that will help pay for local projects like water treatment plants and bridges. —Alex Derosier, Twin Cities, 7 June 2025

The village said money from the existing state tax helps pay for services such as fire, police and public works. —Mike Nolan, Chicago Tribune, 4 June 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