eminent domain

eminent domain   n.  The right of a government to appropriate private property for public use, usually with compensation to the owner.

eminent domain

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

Main Entry: em·i·nent do·main
Pronunciation: 'e-m&-n&nt-
Function: noun
: 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 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.