eminent domain

noun

Law.

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

eminent domain

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

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of eminent domain¹

First recorded in 1730–40