eminent domain


noun Law.

the power of the state to take private property for public use with payment of compensation to the owner.

Origin of eminent domain

First recorded in 1730–40

Words nearby eminent domain

British Dictionary definitions for eminent domain

eminent domain

noun

law the right of a state to confiscate private property for public use, payment usually being made to the owners in compensation

Cultural definitions for eminent domain

eminent domain

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