public sector

American  

noun

1. the area of the nation's affairs under governmental rather than private control.

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public sector British  

noun

1. the part of an economy that consists of state-owned institutions, including nationalized industries and services provided by local authorities Compare private sector

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public sector Cultural  

1. That part of the economy controlled by the government. (Compare private sector.)

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Etymology

Origin of public sector

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

The technology’s monetization potential is “becoming more tangible,” and IBM’s existing pedigree and entrenchment within the public sector serve as a launchpad for growth.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

One of the few weak spots was the public sector.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Office users from the public sector are among the buyers.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

In the Philippines, some government offices have mandated that staff work from home at least one day a week, while President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has banned non-essential travel in the public sector.

From BBC • Mar. 17, 2026

As a result, the Philippines is burdened   with a public sector debt equal to more than 100% of GDP.

From The 2003 CIA World Factbook by United States. Central Intelligence Agency