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

As mayor, La Guardia championed immigrants and the working class, while reshaping the city through massive public works. —Mo Rocca, CBS News, 4 Jan. 2026

Gus Khankarli, Dallas’ director of transportation and public works, didn’t respond to a request for comment. —Everton Bailey Jr, Dallas Morning News, 2 Jan. 2026

But Mayor La Guardia accomplished his agenda during the Great Depression with help from Franklin Roosevelt in the White House and a Democratic Congress to pass New Deal programs funding public works, social programs and other progressive policies. —Nathaniel Meyersohn, CNN Money, 1 Jan. 2026

Lemon Grove parks were all closed Wednesday afternoon due to high winds after a tree fell at Lemon Grove Park, according to Izzy Murguia, the city’s public works director. —Gary Robbins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Dec. 2025

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