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

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

"We ask everyone to plan ahead, stay safe and warm, and stay off the roads to help our public works and public safety efforts," Wu said.

From Barron's • Feb. 22, 2026

Reforms in permitting for energy, mining or public works?

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 14, 2025

When public works want something, they schedule another hearing.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 25, 2025

The Interstate Highway Act brought autobahns to the United States and became the largest public works project in the nation’s history, building 46,000 miles of road with more than $130 billion of federal money.

From "Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal" by Eric Schlosser