public figure

noun

: a well-known person

Examples of public figure in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Forbes was also a public figure in a proposal to redevelop Fisherman’s Wharf, which envisions constructing a public plaza and adding a new overlook and lighting to the wharf’s inner lagoon. — Los Angeles Times, 20 July 2026

But whatever the cause, McIlroy's answer about DeChambeau summarized who he's become as a public figure. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 19 July 2026

McConnell isn't the only public figure whose health has been the subject of speculation. — Phaedra Trethan, USA Today, 7 July 2026

Her name is Meghan Hayden and is a public figure herself, with 167,000 plus followers on Instagram. — Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 7 July 2026

Rhymes for public figure

• reconfigure
• configure
• disfigure
• prefigure

Legal Definition

public figure

noun

public fig·​ure

: an individual or entity that has acquired fame or notoriety or has participated in a particular public controversy see also limited purpose public figure compare public official

Note: A public figure must prove actual malice in order to prevail in a defamation action.