The word "civic" is an adjective that primarily relates to a city, town, or the people who live there, as well as to citizenship and the duties or rights of citizens. It can describe things that have an official status in a city or town, such as civic leaders or civic buildings
. More specifically, "civic" can mean:
- Pertaining to a city or municipality (e.g., civic problems, civic center)
- Relating to citizenship, including the rights, duties, and responsibilities of citizens (e.g., civic duties, civic pride)
- Concerning the virtues, values, or skills necessary for self-government and participation in a community or republic, such as civic courage and civic engagement
The term derives from the Latin civicus , which relates to a citizen (civis) and the idea of a self-governing community. Historically, it referred to the relations among members of a city-state and the ideals of republican self-governance
. In summary, "civic" encompasses anything related to cities or towns, their governance, the citizens' roles within them, and the broader concept of active participation in community and political life.