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

Among the pupils is an office supply salesman, a golf caddie and a public works manager. —Dan Robson, New York Times, 19 Nov. 2025

Obsessed with maintaining confidence in the currency and advised by bankers, Grover Cleveland, the Democratic president, responded to the unemployment crisis not by spending dollars on public works, but by spending dollars buying up gold. —David McWilliams, Fortune, 16 Nov. 2025

Balaguer promoted a strong public works program, building hospitals and schools. —Kim Hjelmgaard, USA Today, 14 Nov. 2025

Since joining Irvine City Hall in 2023, Crumby has been overseeing public works, transportation and sustainability operations, including the $1 billion development of the Great Park. —Victoria Le, Oc Register, 29 Oct. 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