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

While it’s usually applied when the federal government exercises eminent domain and takes title to land, the takings clause also covers the government’s outright destruction of personal property.

From Slate • Feb. 4, 2026

Silverstein opened his own law office in 2005, taking on clients who were challenging eminent domain, the process used by government agencies to acquire private property from owners who are unwilling to sell.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 2, 2025

As selectman, he threatens to co-opt it using eminent domain.

From Slate • Apr. 14, 2025

Ward consulted with Bradford on his land bill to eliminate the standard five-year statute of limitations on eminent domain challenges, because many of the unfair land takings happened decades ago.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 19, 2024

Then, when they have the 61 right of eminent domain, they will let the options lapse and buy the properties at their own prices.”

From The Shepherd of the North by Maher, Richard Aumerle