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.

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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

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eminent domain Cultural  

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

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Etymology

Origin of eminent domain

First recorded in 1730–40

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

eminent domain

In Bakersfield, the rail project is attempting to use buyouts and eminent domain to acquire properties for the station.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 26, 2026

The board ended up directing the mayor to try to negotiate for the fuel facility, but didn’t immediately allow her to use eminent domain.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 31, 2026

Landowners in communities adjacent to the park are still gearing up to face eminent domain challenges from the federal government.

From Salon ● May 25, 2026

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

From Slate ● Apr. 14, 2025

It may be added that if the performance of a covenant is rendered impossible by an act of eminent domain the covenantor is excused.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 9, Slice 3 "Electrostatics" to "Engis" by Various