Public
ˈpʌblɪk
Definitions
3 meaningsThe community or people as a whole.
ˈpʌblɪk
The people as a whole; the community.
The public demanded answers from the company.
💡 Simply: Imagine a big crowd at a concert, everyone is there together. That's the public! It's all of us, the people.
👶 For kids: The group of people everyone is in.
More Examples
The museum is open to the public.
A public outcry followed the announcement.
How It's Used
"The public has a right to know."
"The politician is accountable to the public."
Available to or affecting all people; not private.
ˈpʌblɪk
Open to or shared by all people; not private.
The park is a public space.
💡 Simply: Imagine something anyone can go to or see, like a park or a show that's not just for your family. That's public! Open for all.
👶 For kids: Open for everyone to see or use, like a park.
More Examples
The announcement was made public.
She made a public apology.
How It's Used
"The trial was held in public."
"The company went public last year."
Relating to or affecting the people of a country or community.
ˈpʌblɪk
Done or acting on behalf of the people.
Public transportation is essential for commuting in the city.
💡 Simply: When someone's job is to help everyone, like a police officer or a librarian. They are there for the public! They're working on your behalf
👶 For kids: Helping everyone
More Examples
The public service announcement informed the public.
He has been advocating for public policies for years
How It's Used
"Public health officials are working hard"
"The government is taking public action"
Synonyms
Citizens
Community
People
Populace
Accessible
Communal
General
Open
Civic
Collective
Governmental
Idioms & expressions
in public
In a place where others are present; openly.
"They kissed in public, shocking everyone."
go public
Of a company, to offer shares for sale to the general public.
"The company plans to go public next year."
public office
A position or role of service to the community; often used to refer to elected positions
"She aspired to hold public office and make a difference."
From Latin publicus, meaning 'belonging to the people' or 'of the state'. It evolved through Old French and entered English.
Historically, 'public' referred to the common people, as opposed to royalty or aristocracy.
Memory tip
Think of a public gathering: everyone is there, part of the whole.