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.

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Etymology

Origin of public affairs

First recorded in 1605–15

Example Sentences

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

Lauren Bis, acting assistant public affairs secretary at Homeland Security, wrote in an email that members of Congress can still request to speak with detainees and that ICE will facilitate their meetings.

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2026

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

From Slate • Apr. 23, 2026

"The 1949 act didn't actually open up any land," says Kate Conto, policy and public affairs manager at the Ramblers, formerly known as the Ramblers' Association.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

“It shows the importance of work and marriage,” said Sara S. McLanahan, a professor of sociology and public affairs at Princeton who specializes in family and poverty.

From "Class Matters" by The New York Times