expropriation

noun

ex·​pro·​pri·​a·​tion (ˌ)ek-ˌsprō-prē-ˈā-shən How to pronounce expropriation (audio)
: the act of expropriating or the state of being expropriated
specifically : the action of the state in taking or modifying the property rights of an individual in the exercise of its sovereignty

Examples of expropriation in a Sentence

the development of the colony involved expropriation of large tracts of fertile farmland from the natives
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.
The expropriation entailed the government seizing a 51% equity stake in YPF. Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Time, 29 Aug. 2025 Land expropriations will also be authorized. CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2025 Trump has taken particular exception to the recent passage of a law that enables expropriation of land. Niall Stanage, The Hill, 21 May 2025 Trump has falsely accused the South African government of rights violations against white Afrikaner farmers by seizing their land through a new expropriation law. Gerald Imray, Chicago Tribune, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for expropriation

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of expropriation was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Expropriation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expropriation. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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