eminent domain

noun, Law.
1.
the power of the state to take private property for public use with payment of compensation to the owner.
Origin
1730-40
Examples from the web for eminent domain
  • We don't use the government powers of eminent domain to give private property to private interests.
  • Compensation for property taken by eminent domain--condemnation juries--payment--railroad property.
  • In this situation the power of eminent domain is the only salvation.
  • eminent domain seizure of right-of-way being a good example.
  • eminent domain can only be used during the first five years of a redevelopment project area.
British Dictionary definitions for eminent domain

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 in Culture

eminent domain definition


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