publicist

noun

pub·​li·​cist ˈpə-blə-sist 

1

a

: an expert in international law

b

: an expert or commentator on public affairs

2

: one that publicizes

specifically : press agent

Examples of publicist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Before the Material Girl’s publicist, Liz Rosenberg, finally whisked her away, air kisses were exchanged. —Justin Ravitz, Rolling Stone, 6 Sep. 2025

There was that one publicist who existed, and came a few years later. —Lynnette Nicholas, Essence, 6 Sep. 2025

Hanks’ publicist also did not respond. —Ted Johnson, Deadline, 6 Sep. 2025

Tracey spent several years working as a publicist for Aretha Franklin, traveling in and out of Detroit, and brought her mother to Franklin’s 74th birthday party at New York City’s Ritz-Carlton. —Duante Beddingfield, Freep.com, 5 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin pūblicista, probably from Latin pūblicum in jūs pūblicum "public law" (neuter of pūblicus public entry 1) + -ista -ist entry 1

Note: The Latin word was used in reference to expertise in public law within the Holy Roman Empire, a usage that apparently was extended to international law (traditionally jūs gentium "law of nations"). Earlier adaptations in German (Publicist, now Publizist) and French (publiciste) could be the direct source of the English word. Senses 1b and 2 may be from public(ize) + -ist entry 1.

First Known Use

1792, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

publicist

noun

pub·​li·​cist ˈpəb-lə-səst 

1

a

: an expert in international law

b

: an expert on public affairs

2

: press agent