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.

---

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

---

Etymology

Origin of public service

First recorded in 1560–70

Example Sentences

He was made a Commander of the British Empire in 2002 and knighted in 2015 for his public service, "particularly to the Church of England".

From BBC

Protecting investment and public services will further drive financial growth, Sir Keir is expected to say.

From BBC

It also requires public services to be provided and received with the face uncovered.

From BBC

She added: "But money always has to come from somewhere, and it is right that we ask the energy companies to make a fair contribution to fund public services in Scotland."

From BBC

Britain's government unveiled a tax-raising budget Wednesday welcomed by financial markets, as its hard-hitting action aims to slash state debt as well as fund public services.

From Barron's

Related Words

• civil service