public relations

noun

plural in form but usually singular in construction

often attributive

: the business of inducing the public to have understanding for and goodwill toward a person, firm, or institution

also : the degree of understanding and goodwill achieved

Examples of public relations in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Third, trust is not a public relations asset. —Monica Sanders, Forbes.com, 25 Jan. 2026

Her stint at Yves Saint Laurent (2001-2004) as vice president of public relations (also reporting to Ford) saw Blechman lead both landmark campaigns and philanthropic initiatives. —Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 23 Jan. 2026

Also watch for changes in the video department, training room, strength room and public relations. —Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 22 Jan. 2026

Carson Cunningham, Oklahoma Natural Gas public relations manager, said Tuesday that the company prepares year-round for winter weather. —Barbara Hoberock, Oklahoma Voice, 21 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for public relations

• abbreviations
• abominations
• accelerations
• accommodations
• accumulations
• adjudications
• administrations
• adulterations
• affiliations
• agglomerations
• alienations
• amalgamations

Kids Definition

public relations

noun

1

: the business of creating public goodwill for a person, firm, or institution

2

: the degree of understanding and goodwill achieved