eminent domain

NOUN

governments right to acquire private property for public use

Synonyms

WEAK

angary divine right lawful authority legal authority legitimacy right of eminent domain rightful authority

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

While it’s usually applied when the federal government exercises eminent domain and takes title to land, the takings clause also covers the government’s outright destruction of personal property.

From Slate • Feb. 4, 2026

The Santa Monica City Council agreed earlier this week to pay a settlement to the family of a Black entrepreneur whose land the city acknowledged was unfairly taken through eminent domain during the 1950s.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 22, 2025

As selectman, he threatens to co-opt it using eminent domain.

From Slate • Apr. 14, 2025

“For those that refused to leave, eminent domain was used to remove them.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 19, 2024

It may be added that if the performance of a covenant is rendered impossible by an act of eminent domain the covenantor is excused.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 9, Slice 3 "Electrostatics" to "Engis" by Various