public affairs

American

noun

(used with a plural verb) matters of general interest or concern, especially those dealing with current social or political issues.
(used with a singular verb) the field of study dealing with current social or political issues.

Etymology

Origin of public affairs

First recorded in 1605–15

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Professor of professional practice in international and public affairs, and founding director of the Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 16, 2026

Leon Mar, the CBC's senior director of public affairs, has said that the broadcaster will be sending three staff members to this year's Eurovision Song Contest as observers, the CBC reported.

From BBC • May 14, 2026

She also works on an as-needed basis as a public affairs specialist for the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

Impressive agencies of many stripes noticed: advertising, branding, public affairs, strategic comms.

From Slate • Apr. 23, 2026

It violated the core of virtue and disinterestedness presumed essential for anyone properly equipped to oversee public affairs.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023