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

This - along with plans for a tax on private jet flights earmarked for 2028 - continues the Scottish government's approach of asking those who are better off to pay more towards public services.

From BBC

The argument I hear within government is they are ditching the bit that is unpopular, but keeping something people might choose to use themselves because it could make accessing public services easier, for instance.

From BBC

"Digital ID will make everyday life easier for people, ensuring public services are more personal, joined-up, and effective, while also remaining inclusive."

From BBC

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has urged Labour colleagues to stop making excuses and blaming the system for the slow pace of change in public services.

From BBC

But as investors digest the weekend news, there appears to be some comfort being derived from Powell’s comments about public service sometimes requiring “standing firm in the face of threats.”

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• civil service