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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For the Del Mar options, the letter echoed the longtime concerns of residents that eminent domain would be required. Luke Harold, San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 Mar. 2025 Columbus would also have to acquire huge quantities of land for construction, leveling homes and businesses under eminent domain. Andrew King, Axios, 10 Feb. 2025 One of the next major steps is expected to involve the VTA’s formal purchase of the property, thereby ending the eminent domain proceeding to condemn and seize the site. George Avalos, The Mercury News, 13 Feb. 2025 Stein says key provisions in the emergency declaration include ordering departments and agencies to explore using federal land or eminent domain, which is when the government takes private property for public use with compensation. Jeff Brady, NPR, 22 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for eminent domain

Word History

First Known Use

1783, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of eminent domain was in 1783

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Eminent domain.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eminent%20domain. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

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.

More from Merriam-Webster on eminent domain

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