public service

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

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. 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 British equivalentcivil service

Word History and Origins

Origin of public service¹

First recorded in 1560–70

Example Sentences

Before beginning his career in public service, Duffy was a prosecutor and a reality TV star, appearing on several shows including The Real World: Boston, and Road Rules: All Stars.

From BBC

The UK Treasury said it was taking "a fair and balanced approach" to inheritance tax relief in order to help fund public services.

From BBC

The NHS itself will be exempt from those increased costs but, as things stand, not-for-profit organisations including some care charities providing public services will have to pay.

From BBC

Trump sought to eliminate the public service forgiveness plan during his first term, but it would take an act of Congress to do so.

From Los Angeles Times

The annual event comes as the government also faces criticism from businesses for holding back growth through tax raises, which Reeves has said are necessary to "properly fund" public services.

From BBC

Related Words

• civil service