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

In 2020, the City of Cedarburg even tried to add language to its contract with Waste Management that would keep Smith on the company's Cedarburg route, Mike Wieser, the city's director of public works and engineering, said. —Claudia Levens, Journal Sentinel, 14 Nov. 2024

That’s been especially important as more federal funding for public works projects has become available in recent years through Biden’s bipartisan infrastructure law, said Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara. —Dan Petrella, Chicago Tribune, 27 Oct. 2024

Mayor – Ron Bernal Bernal knows all aspects of Antioch city government well, having served the city as assistant city engineer, public works director and then city manager. —East Bay Times Editorial, The Mercury News, 24 Oct. 2024

Stunning stat: Helene displaced as much as 1 million cubic yards of sand, Pinellas public works director Kelli Hammer Levy told TDC members. —Kathryn Varn, Axios, 22 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

public works

plural noun

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