eminent domain

noun

: a right of a government to take private property for public use by virtue of the superior dominion of the sovereign power over all lands within its jurisdiction

Examples of eminent domain in a Sentence

The state took the homes by eminent domain to build the new road.

Recent Examples on the Web

Aside from the public use argument, property owners could also challenge whether the price they are being offered is fair, the most common point of contention in eminent domain disputes. —Aldo Svaldi, Denver Post, 25 July 2025

The city of Carmel pursued eminent domain lawsuits against at least eight land owners to pave the way for the 2002 opening of the trail north of the county line. —Jordan Smith, IndyStar, 3 July 2025

Like the bond, permission to pursue eminent domain proceedings requires City Council approval. —Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 1 July 2025

Under Florida’s eminent domain laws, the property owners would have to be offered fair compensation, including for their businesses, after an appraisal. —Martin E. Comas, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1783, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for eminent domain

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Kids Definition

eminent domain

noun

: a right of a government to take private property for public use

Legal Definition

eminent domain

noun

em·​i·​nent do·​main

ˈe-mə-nənt-

: the right of the government to take property from a private owner for public use by virtue of the superior dominion of its sovereignty over all lands within its jurisdiction see also condemn, expropriate, take sense 1b

Note: The Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution requires the government to compensate the owner of property taken by eminent domain, stating “nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.” State constitutions contain similar provisions requiring that the property owner receive just compensation for the property taken.