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

Robinson, the assistant public works director for Oak Forest, is the former coordinator of the Homer Glen Emergency Management Agency. —Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 17 Feb. 2025

The site is now being used as a staging area for a public works project nearby, and the car dealership is home to a wholesaler for nail salons. —Laura Kinsler, Orlando Sentinel, 17 Feb. 2025

Since then, the city has sought permission from Miami-Dade County’s public works department to make the setup permanent. —Aaron Leibowitz, Miami Herald, 8 Feb. 2025

The site, located at the city’s public works building, will be open Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2:20 p.m. and Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to noon until Nov. 15, according to the city’s website. —Noah Mitchell, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 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