public service

noun

1

: the business of supplying a commodity (such as electricity or gas) or service (such as transportation) to any or all members of a community

2

: a service rendered in the public interest

3

: governmental employment

especially : civil service

Examples of public service in a Sentence

The cost of public services is on the rise.

The station is running antismoking commercials as a public service.

The company is heavily involved in public service.

He works in public service.

She has devoted her life to public service.

Recent Examples on the Web

With seven months left in his term, Macron’s approval ratings are near record lows, driven by anger over the rising cost of living and criticism of France’s growing debt and deficit and deteriorating public services. — Nicole Winfield, Los Angeles Times, 25 Sep. 2026

Millions of Americans live with sleep apnea, and a candid podcast moment from Jack Black is still doing the work of a public service announcement more than a year later. — Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 25 Sep. 2026

Evanstonians who are also Northwestern alumni, live or work in Evanston and work in public service professions will get a special deal of $25 for a ticket. — Claire Murphy, Chicago Tribune, 24 Sep. 2026

In the hours after his death, state lawmakers praised Zahnd for his integrity and dedication to public service. — Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 22 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1576, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for public service

• interservice
• disservice
• preservice
• nervous
• nervus

Kids Definition

public service

noun

1

: the business of supplying a commodity (as electricity or gas) or service (as transportation) to any or all members of a community

2

: governmental employment

especially : civil service