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

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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.
Officials have acknowledged that the ordinance would make parks and public works projects pricier and require more staff time while roping in outside consultants. — Frederick Melo, Twin Cities, 7 July 2026 She is known for her many abstract, geometric public works around the world, notably embedded into the architecture of London’s leading museums. — Devorah Lauter, ARTnews.com, 25 June 2026 The phrase recalls the socialist Gilded Age mayors whom critics derided as too preoccupied with managing public works projects. — Matt Brown, Fortune, 20 June 2026 Weighed down by higher energy prices and a property market collapse, the Chinese economy is getting offsetting help from public works spending, a surge in high-tech manufacturing and booming exports. — Paul Wiseman, Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026 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

Rhymes for public works

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Browse Nearby Words

public way
public works
public works and ways system
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Cite this Entry

“Public works.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/public%20works. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about public works

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