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

With no fair government review, this fight pits individual families against corporations and billionaires with in-house legal teams, powerful lobbyists and endless public relations resources. — Chicago Tribune, 25 Sep. 2026

Tens of thousands of the letters were generated by public relations campaigns by Reynolds American, maker of Newport, and Altria, maker of Marlboro Menthol, researchers found. — Jason McLure — The Examination, STAT, 25 Sep. 2026

My appreciation to attractions officials, creative types, public relations folks and other experts who helped with facts, figures and fanciful requests. — Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 Sep. 2026

Kevin, from the reports of many, was not so subtle in his efforts to ramp up his public relations campaign for his candidacy — and in some circles he was anointed as the favorite to be Bob’s successor. — Bob Chapek, HollywoodReporter, 24 Sep. 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