public school

noun

1

: an endowed secondary boarding school in Great Britain offering a classical curriculum and preparation for the universities or public service

2

: a free tax-supported school controlled by a local governmental authority

Examples of public school in a Sentence

Both of their sons attend public school.

Recent Examples on the Web

The move sparked anxiety, confusion and intense pushback from public school districts and advocates nationwide. —Rachel Wegner, The Tennessean, 27 July 2025

Effect on public schools The funding freeze, announced one day before scheduled disbursements, disrupted school budgets statewide. —Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 25 July 2025

This year, state lawmakers approved a $8.5 billion bump for public schools, the first comprehensive increase in state funding for public schools since 2019. —Keri Heath, Austin American Statesman, 25 July 2025

Schools barred from displaying Pride, Black Lives Matter flags House Bill 41 limits which flags and banners public schools can display. —Ashley Fredde, Idaho Statesman, 24 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for public school

• minuscule
• molecule
• overrule
• poiseuille
• reticule
• ridicule
• vestibule
• ampoule
• bascule
• carpool
• cesspool
• ferrule

Kids Definition

public school

noun

1

: a British private school that gives a liberal education and prepares students for the universities

2

: an elementary or secondary school supported by taxes and operated by a local government