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.

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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

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Etymology

Origin of public relations

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

Two public relation firms that previously worked with Sunday Riley said they no longer represented the firm.

From New York Times • Nov. 28, 2019

“History can’t just be the public relation job done by the victors,” Washburn said.

From Washington Times • Feb. 26, 2018

“I don’t know the reason why he was transferred,” Maj Gen Aye Lwin, deputy director of the psychological warfare and public relation department at the ministry of defence, told Reuters.

From The Guardian • Nov. 13, 2017

"It was one of the most serious cases of rail accidents in India," said Sandeep Mathur, chief public relation officer of North Central Railways, who added an inquiry would be launched.

From Reuters • Jul. 11, 2011

In General Taylor's general public relation to his country, what will strongly impress a close observer was his unostentatious, self-sacrificing, long-enduring devotion to his duty.

From The Life and Public Service of General Zachary Taylor: An Address by Barton, William Eleazar