In the public eye Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Celebrity Context This phrase often relates to celebrities or famous people's presence in media. After her latest film, she was in the public eye. Pro Tip 2/3Attention Span Being in the public eye can be temporary as public interest changes quickly. He was in the public eye for one summer, then faded from fame. Pro Tip 3/3Positive or Negative The phrase doesn't specify if the recognition is for positive or negative reasons. She fell into debt and reluctantly stepped into the public eye.