public works

American  

plural noun

1. structures, as roads, dams, or post offices, paid for by government funds for public use.

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public works British  

plural noun

1. engineering projects and other constructions, financed and undertaken by a government for the community

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public works Cultural  

1. Public facilities and improvements financed by the government for the public good. Public works include hospitals, bridges, highways, and dams. These projects may be funded by local, state, or federal appropriations. (See also pork-barrel legislation.)

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Etymology

Origin of public works

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

Two blocks of municipal land, including the village office, council chambers, public works facilities, and a recreation center, sit directly above a former mine site.

From Science Daily • May 6, 2026

Caught up in another case of suspected corruption for public works contracts, he has been forced to step down from the key party position.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

Those who refuse say they are denied the chance to participate in public works schemes, often the only local work available.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

For decades the continent minimized defense outlays, opting instead to fund lavish social-welfare programs and extensive public works.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

Cities differ from villages in their monumental public works, palaces of rulers, accumulation of capital from tribute or taxes, and concentration of people other than food producers.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond