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.

---

public opinion British  

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of public opinion

First recorded in 1560–70

Example Sentences

There are no political public opinion polls in Cuba.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 29, 2026

Now it finds itself in an awkward spot as public opinion turns against the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 22, 2026

Now, in retrospect, public opinion is very different, with most Americans saying that the Iraq war was a mistake.

From Slate • Mar. 11, 2026

"This can have effects that range from influencing public opinion on a major issue, like whether or not a country should engage in conflict, to impacting financial markets."

From Barron's • Mar. 9, 2026

Meanwhile, a small group of friends and associates, people of power and influence who believed in equal rights, was planning a campaign to marshal public opinion.

From "The Voice That Challenged a Nation: Marian Anderson and the Struggle for Equal Rights" by Russell Freedman