Legal Definitions - public

Definition:

1. The people of a state, nation, or municipality. This word comes from the Latin word "publicus," which means "pertaining to the people, state, or community."
2. Belonging to or available to the people and under the authority of the government. It can refer to an entity, agency, or activity.

Examples:

• Public schools: Schools that are funded and run by the government and available to all students.
• Public utilities: Services like electricity, water, and gas that are owned and operated by the government and available to everyone in the community.
• Public hospitals: Medical facilities that are owned and operated by the government and available to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay.
• Public lands: Land that is owned by the government and available for use by the public. This can include parks, forests, and beaches.
• Public roads: Roads that are owned and maintained by the government and available for use by all drivers.

These examples illustrate the definition of "public" because they all involve resources or services that are owned or operated by the government and available to everyone in the community. They are not privately owned or restricted to certain individuals or groups.