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

Example Sentences

In its motion to dismiss, Stonewall Capital questioned BWRR’s authority to use eminent domain or initiate a condemnation.

From Washington Post

In February, the mayor’s office used eminent domain to acquire a Wendy’s at First Street NE and New York Avenue NE, where an ill-planned intersection surrounding the restaurant snarled traffic for decades.

From Washington Post

Not only could Georgia Power use eminent domain to condemn property without public hearings, it had the authority to build new plants nearly wherever it wanted.

From ProPublica

The district could use eminent domain, where the government uses its power to take private property for public use in exchange for compensation, or purchase properties to get the land.

From Voice of San Diego

The company took her land using eminent domain, and the condemnation paperwork she received was silent on abandonment.

From Popular-Science

The oceans are now the Kings highway and he owns them by right of eminent domain.

From Project Gutenberg

The obligation of contracts has been declared sacred; the right of eminent domain restricted by the provision for compensation.

From Project Gutenberg

As to eminent domain, they possess an undefined right to determine the time and manner of ascertaining the compensation.

From Project Gutenberg

The right of eminent domain nowhere justifies the taking of property for private use.

From Project Gutenberg

As we understand the principles of our government, the states possess the right of eminent domain.

From Project Gutenberg