noun

expropriation

eks-proh-pree-AY-shun/ˌeksˌprəʊpriˈeɪʃn/

The taking of property from its owner, especially by a government.

The farmers oppose the government's expropriation of their land.

A government planner and a farmer standing by a farm fence beside stakes outlining a new public roadway across private land, official document and keys transferred, no logos/text.

Etymology

exLatinaway from

+propriLatinto take as one's own

+ationLatinaction or process

The components combine taking as one's own with removal, yielding “deprive of property.” The noun shifted from renunciation of worldly goods to taking someone else's property, especially for public use.

In context

Mogobe Nuggets Of Wisdom Podcast49:38

If the president determines, which the compulsory acquisition will be executed through the president's office. If that is an expropriation Yes, forced expropriation.

Nuggets on The Power of Knowledge on Land as Property with Gilbert Sesinyi

More examples

The city approves the expropriation of several lots for a new highway.
Owners demand fair compensation for the expropriation of their property.
The court rules that the expropriations were illegal.

Forms

expropriation · expropriations

expropriate verb — To take property away from its owner.

Similar words

confiscation: Often involves seizure as punishment, rather than for public use.
seizure: Emphasizes forcibly taking possession, not necessarily transferring legal ownership.
nationalization: Specifically transfers private businesses or industries into government ownership.