public service

American  

noun

1. the business of supplying an essential commodity, as gas or electricity, or a service, as transportation, to the general public.

2. government employment; civil service.

3. a service to the public rendered without charge by a profit-making organization.

   This radio program has been brought to you as a public service.

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public service British  

noun

1. 1. government employment

   2. the management and administration of the affairs of a political unit, esp the civil service

2. 1. a service provided for the community

      buses provide a public service

   2. ( as modifier )

      a public-service announcement

3. British equivalent: civil service.  the service responsible for the public administration of the government of a country. It excludes the legislative, judicial, and military branches. Members of the public service have no official political allegiance and are not generally affected by changes of governments

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Etymology

Origin of public service

First recorded in 1560–70

Example Sentences

For years I had asked Usha to have another baby, and for years she had told me she was done—especially now that public service had elevated us into the national spotlight.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

After a life devoted to public service or writing for think tanks, he isn’t a wealthy man.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

"At this time, I must step away from public service to be by his side and fully support him through this battle."

From Barron's • May 22, 2026

McKee, a former businessman, had held several junior ministerial roles previously but is now stepping up to the cabinet for the first time as public service reform secretary, with the government eyeing big savings.

From BBC • May 20, 2026

On the radio, the announcer reads public service classifieds.

From "All the Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr

Related Words

• civil service