public affairs

American  

noun

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

2. (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

See Examples For:

public affairs

Legal “hold” letters have been sent to representatives of GKN Aerospace, demanding the company retain its records that could be relevant to the investigation, said Kimberly Edds, director of public affairs for Spitzer’s office.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 25, 2026

"The benefits that are provided by trees are only provided by trees," said Inigo Atkin, the charity's public affairs manager.

From BBC ● May 24, 2026

Filings under the Foreign Agents Registration Act last week revealed conservative political consultant Stone has been commissioned through consulting firm the DCI Group to provide "public affairs services" to Myanmar's information ministry.

From Barron's ● May 5, 2026

“What this shows is 15 very significant cracks across the country at the state legislative level,” said Sean Kennedy, head of public affairs at the National Restaurant Association.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 1, 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