What does publicity mean?
Publicity means the attention, recognition, or visibility given to a person, organization, event, product, or idea, especially through newspapers, television, social media, or other public channels. The word can describe deliberate efforts to attract interest, as in a publicity campaign, or the attention a subject receives incidentally. It is also used more broadly for information that becomes public knowledge. Publicity is not necessarily synonymous with approval or good reputation: a person may receive extensive publicity because of controversy, scandal, or unusual behaviour. In business and entertainment contexts, it often has a promotional sense, while in legal and political contexts it may emphasize public awareness and disclosure. The term is extremely common in British and American English.
nounAttention, interest, or visibility given to a person, organization, event, product, or idea, especially through the media. It can also refer more generally to information or awareness that is made public.
- Attention or visibility given to someone or something, especially through the media.
- Information or awareness that is made public.
"The charity gained valuable publicity through its fundraising campaign."
"The actor received widespread publicity after the film's release."
"The documents were released to ensure publicity for the investigation."
The plural is rare; the singular uncountable form is normally preferred in general usage.
"The newspaper's editorially different publicities reached separate audiences."
Publicity can make a person famous without showing them in the best light: its power comes from attention, not from approval.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does publicity come from?
The word comes from the late 18th century, formed from public plus the suffix -ity. Publicity ultimately derives from Latin publicus, meaning “of the people” or “open to the people.” Related English words include public, popular, populace, and publish, all reflecting the idea of something being open, shared, or addressed to the public.
Related word forms
How publicity is actually used
Publicity is usually uncountable and is often used when the attention results from media coverage, publicity activities, or public exposure. It can be neutral, but it sometimes suggests excessive or unwanted attention.
Easily confused with publicity
Publicity is the attention a person or organization receives, whereas public relations is the broader professional practice of managing communication and relationships with the public.