public relations

American  

noun

1. (used with a plural verb) the actions of a corporation, store, government, individual, etc., in promoting goodwill between itself and the public, the community, employees, customers, etc.

2. (used with a singular verb) the art, technique, or profession of promoting such goodwill.

---

public relations British  

noun

1. 1. the practice of creating, promoting, or maintaining goodwill and a favourable image among the public towards an institution, public body, etc

   2. the methods and techniques employed

   3. ( as modifier )

      the public relations industry

2. the condition of the relationship between an organization and the public

3. the professional staff employed to create, promote, or maintain a favourable relationship between an organization and the public

---

Etymology

Origin of public relations

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

Mr. McGinty earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations and journalism from Utica College of Syracuse University.

From The Wall Street Journal

At the time it was billed as a public relations masterstroke for the monarchy, which was now modernizing by welcoming a mixed-race American celebrity into its ranks.

From The Wall Street Journal

You could move to consulting, corporate training, human resources, educational technology and publishing, public relations or content development.

From MarketWatch

An American public relations professional living in Qatar paid more than $1,000 for a ride to Riyadh on Thursday.

From The Wall Street Journal

When she was 19, Penchansky dropped out of college to work in public relations.

From The Wall Street Journal