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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The reservoir had been choked with cyanobacteria, leading to public health advisories that warned people not to touch or swim in the water and putting financial stress on the local public works department. Diana Kruzman, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 Jan. 2025 Catch up quick: Last fall, public works planners recommended making the square's current layout permanent, leaving space for a memorial to Floyd and adding gates to block the street for special events. Kyle Stokes, Axios, 23 Jan. 2025 Yet of all of Kraft’s public works in Kansas City, none was so iconic as the circus mosaic at the entrance to the downtown Main Library’s children’s department. Patrick Salland, Kansas City Star, 20 Jan. 2025 The Panama Canal, which Trump has repeatedly discussed taking back control of, was the most expensive public works project in U.S. history up until that time, with about $302 million spent on construction between 1903 and 1914, according to a 2006 Harvard Business School study. Chris Mueller, USA TODAY, 20 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for public works 

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of public works was in 1600

Dictionary Entries Near public works

Cite this Entry

“Public works.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/public%20works. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

public works

plural noun
: works (as schools, highways, or docks) constructed with public funds for public use

More from Merriam-Webster on public works

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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