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

“This year alone, we have seen enthusiasm for high-caliber programs with broad appeal,” said Roma Daravi, the vice president of public relations at the center.

From The Wall Street Journal

A representative for the wedding unit’s public relations team could not immediately be reached for comment.

From Los Angeles Times

Earlier in her career, she covered the business of consumer marketing for a public relations trade publication.

From The Wall Street Journal

“I mean, I’m not getting — maybe I have the — bad public relations people, but we’re not getting it across.”

From Salon

You’ve written about how the media often signposts police as heroes — has this always been the case or was it a gradual process of building a public relations institution?

From Salon