public service

noun

1. the business of supplying an essential commodity, as gas or electricity, or a service, as transportation, to the general public.

2. government employment; civil service.

3. a service to the public rendered without charge by a profit-making organization.

   This radio program has been brought to you as a public service.

public service

noun

1. 1. government employment

   2. the management and administration of the affairs of a political unit, esp the civil service

2. 1. a service provided for the community

      buses provide a public service

   2. ( as modifier )

      a public-service announcement

3. British equivalent: civil service. the service responsible for the public administration of the government of a country. It excludes the legislative, judicial, and military branches. Members of the public service have no official political allegiance and are not generally affected by changes of governments

Word History and Origins

Origin of public service¹

First recorded in 1560–70

Example Sentences

It also requires public services to be provided and received with the face uncovered.

Read more on BBC

She added: "But money always has to come from somewhere, and it is right that we ask the energy companies to make a fair contribution to fund public services in Scotland."

Read more on BBC

Britain's government unveiled a tax-raising budget Wednesday welcomed by financial markets, as its hard-hitting action aims to slash state debt as well as fund public services.

Read more on Barron's

Ahead of the Budget, the Scottish government had urged the chancellor to invest in public services and support people with the cost of living.

Read more on BBC

"Digital ID will give people more control over how their data is used and ensure everyone can access the public services they need," the government spokesperson said.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• civil service