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

The department notified the local public works agency of some damage, but McGee could not say what exactly was damaged or what the extent was. — Iris Kwok aug. 24, Los Angeles Times, 25 Aug. 2026

Due to a mild winter last year, Arlington Heights has a full salt dome, and the village is not immediately concerned, said Cris Papierniak, director of public works and engineering. — Steve Zalusky, Chicago Tribune, 21 Aug. 2026

Okin is the assistant director at Living New Deal, an organization devoted to documenting New Deal-era art and public works. — Rachel Treisman, NPR, 20 Aug. 2026

Rohlfing, meanwhile, has pledged to strengthen core county services including infrastructure and public works. — Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 20 Aug. 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