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

Macomb County Board of Commissioners Chairman Don Brown, who has served the board for 34 years and was elected to a four-year term in November, is resigning, with plans to become deputy commissioner for the county's public works office. —Christina Hall, Detroit Free Press, 13 Dec. 2024

The five-member OC Board of Supervisors sets policy and direction for the county’s $9.5 billion budget, 18,000 employees and various departments, including the county health care and social services agencies, animal care, public works, landfills and more. —Destiny Torres, Orange County Register, 5 Dec. 2024

Additionally, investigators found that US Framing West failed to fulfill requirements to pay a prevailing wage — typically a rate similar to that of unionized workers, often well above minimum wage for specialized jobs — on a public works project in Cathedral City. —Grace Toohey, Los Angeles Times, 27 Nov. 2024

For more information, contact the city’s public works department at [e-mail] or call 408- 730-7605. —Anne Gelhaus, The Mercury News, 25 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

public works

plural noun

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