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

In what OpenAI has dismissed as a public relations stunt, Musk has vowed that any damages awarded in the suit will go to the startup's nonprofit foundation.

From Barron's • Apr. 25, 2026

Orange-industry groups hired medical professionals as spokespeople in public relations, and kicked off an emergency ad campaign addressing what they branded “juice confusion.”

From Slate • Apr. 20, 2026

She graduated from the University of Oregon with a degree in journalism and worked in public relations and technology marketing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

"Residents of the north are not extras in an international public relations show," he added.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

After desperate pleading from Ed Meryl, the Treasury public relations chief, she agreed to one last interview with the American Magazine.

From "The Woman All Spies Fear" by Amy Butler Greenfield