eminent domain

American  

noun

Law.

1. the power of the state to take private property for public use with payment of compensation to the owner.

---

eminent domain British  

noun

1. law the right of a state to confiscate private property for public use, payment usually being made to the owners in compensation

---

eminent domain Cultural  

1. The right of a government to take private property for a public purpose, usually with just compensation of the owner.

---

Etymology

Origin of eminent domain

First recorded in 1730–40

Example Sentences

Eminent domain is an unpopular policy that has typically been deployed to build stadiums and freeways, most famously at Chavez Ravine to make way for Dodger Stadium.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 5, 2023

Eminent domain laws vary state by state, said Jorde, who represents hundreds of people Summit has sued in South Dakota to take their land for its pipeline.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 20, 2023

Eminent domain allows the government to take — or, in legal terms, condemn — private property, after compensating the owner, if the property will be put to public use.

From Salon • Nov. 19, 2021

Eminent domain was used to acquire the property at a price of $13.1 million.

From Washington Post • Sep. 17, 2021

U. S. 90.65.Constitution of the United States, Amendment V. Eminent domain means the right and authority of the government to take private property for public purposes upon the payment of a just compensation.

From The Short Constitution by Russell, William F.