Public: meaning, definitions and examples

👥
Add to dictionary

public

 

[ ˈpʌblɪk ]

Adjective / Noun / Adverb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adjective

in general use

Of or concerning the people as a whole.

Synonyms

collective, common, general

Examples of usage

  • The public interest
  • Public health
  • Public opinion
Context #2 | Noun

in general use

The people in general.

Synonyms

community, population, society

Examples of usage

  • The beach was open to the public
  • The museum is free to the public
Context #3 | Adverb

less common

Open to or shared by all the people of an area or country.

Examples of usage

  • The park is open to the public
  • The meeting is public

Translations

Translations of the word "public" in other languages:

🇵🇹 público

🇮🇳 सार्वजनिक

🇩🇪 öffentlich

🇮🇩 umum

🇺🇦 публічний

🇵🇱 publiczny

🇯🇵 公共の

🇫🇷 public

🇪🇸 público

🇹🇷 kamu

🇰🇷 공공의

🇸🇦 عام

🇨🇿 veřejný

🇸🇰 verejný

🇨🇳 公共的

🇸🇮 javni

🇮🇸 opinber

🇰🇿 қоғамдық

🇬🇪 საჯარო

🇦🇿 ictimai

🇲🇽 público

Word origin

The word 'public' comes from the Latin word 'publicus' which means 'of the people'. It has been used in English since the 14th century. The concept of 'public' is essential in governance, law, and society, representing the collective interests of the people.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #117, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.