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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
Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller, a Republican, will face opposition from Democrat Kevin Higgins of Warren for public works commissioner.
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Christina Hall, Detroit Free Press, 7 Aug. 2024
In 2021, public works was awarded $9.4 million for a handful of projects, including changing light bulbs listed as a priority in 2009.
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Anjeanette Damon, ProPublica, 7 Aug. 2024
On average, the county pulls 36.5 million gallons per day from the aquifer, the largest quantity of any jurisdiction in the state, said Beth O’Connell, deputy director of the bureau of engineering at the county’s public works department.
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Christine Condon, Baltimore Sun, 4 Aug. 2024
The town said its public works department is currently clearing brush and debris and some roads remain closed.
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Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 3 Aug. 2024
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These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'public works.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1600, in the meaning defined above
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 19 Aug. 2024.
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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