Definitions

public service

NOUN

government employment or appointment

Synonyms

STRONGEST

civil service

WEAK

benevolences good works philanthropies public life works

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As somebody who was at the DOJ for 21 years, I find that to be anathema to how I thought about public service.

From Slate • Jun. 9, 2026

In 2008, Duncan also received the National Association of Secretaries of State’s Margaret Chase Smith American Democracy Award for political courage and public service.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

"At this time, I must step away from public service to be by his side and fully support him through this battle."

From Barron's • May 22, 2026

Lamm portrayed Colossal’s de-extinction efforts as something of a public service.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

“We’ll talk more about the public service project tomorrow,” says Ms. Oliverio as everybody packs up their books to change classes.

From "Shine!" by J.J. and Chris Grabenstein