public relations

US: /ˈpʌblɪk rɪˈleɪʃənz/

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2025

pub•lic re•la•tions /ˈpʌblɪk rɪˈleɪʃənz/  n. 

1. Business [plural* used with a plural verb] the actions of a corporation, individual, government, etc., in seeking to bring about goodwill with the public.
2. Business the technique or profession of promoting such goodwill:
   [uncountable* used with a singular verb] He studied management and public relations.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2025

pub′lic rela′tions, 

1. Business the actions of a corporation, store, government, individual, etc., in promoting goodwill between itself and the public, the community, employees, customers, etc.
2. Business the art, technique, or profession of promoting such goodwill.
• 1800–10

Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::

public relations noun (functioning as singular or plural)

1. the practice of creating, promoting, or maintaining goodwill and a favourable image among the public towards an institution, public body, etc
2. (as modifier): the public relations industry
3. the condition of the relationship between an organization and the public
4. the professional staff employed to create, promote, or maintain a favourable relationship between an organization and the public

Abbreviation: PR