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.
However, studies indicate the project could require the seizure of 30 or more homes through eminent domain. Ryan MacAsero, Mercury News, 11 Apr. 2025 When construction started a year later, plans for a new interstate freeway threatened the land through eminent domain. Rachel Chang, Travel + Leisure, 20 Mar. 2025 Del Mar residents have raised many concerns about noise, vibrations, pollution, property values and the likely use of eminent domain in the tunnel project. Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Mar. 2025 And then eventually in 1924, the city ended up using eminent domain to shut it down and take the property away. Outside Online, 5 Mar. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Eminent domain.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eminent%20domain. Accessed 21 Apr. 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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