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

Tim Sexton, public works director in Minneapolis, said the amount of snow predicted from this storm might be one of the top five snow events in history. —Kristi Miller, Twin Cities, 14 Mar. 2026

While the exact focus of the FBI probe remains unclear, records reviewed by The Star show that Shaw signed several city contracts with Washington as public works director. —Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 13 Mar. 2026

There are no museums or theme parks; the connection is expressed through street names, public works and the architecture of daily life. —The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Mar. 2026

The parade is a year-long effort, from recruiting entries and sponsors to working with Naperville North and Central high schools and the city’s public works, fire and police departments, Janor said. —Annie Alleman, Chicago Tribune, 9 Mar. 2026

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