An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1a) The community or people in general.

1b) A particular group of people with a common interest, aim, etc.

2a) Of, relating to, or concerning the people as a whole.

2b) Open or accessible to all.

Related concepts:

→ all, → general, → omni-, → total, → universal.

Etymology (EN): M.E., from L. publicus “of the people; of the state,” also “common, general, public; ordinary,” and as a noun, “a commonwealth; public property,” from Old L. poplicus “pertaining to the people.” from populus “people.”

Etymology (PE): Hamegân, from hamé, → all, + -gân suffix forming plural entities, from Mid.Pers. -gânag, -gâna.