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

While income taxes in Westchester are lower than those in New York City, the county has some of the highest property taxes in the country, money that helps fund Westchester’s competitive public schools and public amenities. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 30 Sep. 2025

What originally started in Catholic schools has expanded into public schools. —Kansas City Star, 30 Sep. 2025

Graduate students who are interested in a social work career in California public schools will be able to complete the coursework and practicum hours required for the credential while at CSUF. —Jenelyn Russo, Oc Register, 30 Sep. 2025

Many are exempt from certain laws and regulations that affect public schools. —Bebe Hodges, Cincinnati Enquirer, 28 Sep. 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