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

She called for the city to explore the use of eminent domain: having government acquire land or buildings, even if the property owner doesn’t want to sell.

From Los Angeles Times

With an eye toward redeveloping the area for a new housing project, the city began pursuing residents’ properties in the early 1950s through eminent domain and below-market offers.

From Los Angeles Times

But although Black Americans have largely been the focus of state and national reparations efforts, Bradford said his eminent domain proposal applies to members of other racial groups as well.

From Los Angeles Times

But in 1911, the land was taken from tribal members by eminent domain on behalf of the companies that would construct Copco No. 1 Dam, forcing members to relocate.

From Los Angeles Times

“The County must also develop a framework to provide families displaced by racist policies with ample and substantial resources to address the harmful effects of eminent domain through reparations.”

From Los Angeles Times