public opinion

American  

noun

1. the collective opinion of many people on some issue, problem, etc., especially as a guide to action, decision, or the like.

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public opinion British  

noun

1. the attitude of the public, esp as a factor in determining the actions of government

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Etymology

Origin of public opinion

First recorded in 1560–70

Example Sentences

Our research builds on decades of work showing that public opinion is strongly influenced by media consumption.

From Salon • Jun. 4, 2026

Those in the data center industry are lamenting the state of public opinion.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

"Symbolically speaking, this is very significant," said Paco Camas, head of public opinion in Spain for polling firm Ipsos.

From BBC • May 30, 2026

Pollsters and historians say the souring of public opinion is all but unprecedented in its speed.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

The sinking of the Lusitania shocked the American people, helped turn public opinion against Germany, and almost caused the United States to break off relations with Germany.

From "The War to End All Wars: World War I" by Russell Freedman