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

Russo said about half of the dunes remain in the affected area and that the city's public works department will likely smooth some of the steep cliffs left behind so beachgoers can safely access the sand. — Eva Andersen, CBS News, 27 Sep. 2026

Representatives of the village’s police, fire and public works departments will be on hand to demonstrate their skills, including the police K-9 unit, along with other family fun. — Clifford Ward, Chicago Tribune, 24 Sep. 2026

The county also eliminated five full time positions in its public works department and froze 11 vacant positions in several departments. — Martin E. Comas, The Orlando Sentinel, 23 Sep. 2026

If approved, the facility would also serve as an area hub for public works in Eagle, providing a more convenient location to house the city’s large utility vehicles. — Noah Daly, Idaho Statesman, 17 Sep. 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