expropriation

noun

ex·​pro·​pri·​a·​tion (ˌ)ek-ˌsprō-prē-ˈā-shən How to pronounce expropriation (audio)
: the act of expropriating or the state of being expropriated
specifically : the action of the state in taking or modifying the property rights of an individual in the exercise of its sovereignty

Examples of expropriation in a Sentence

the development of the colony involved expropriation of large tracts of fertile farmland from the natives
Recent Examples on the Web Progressives worry about Western companies’ behavior in the developing world, such as their use of cheap labor, land expropriation, and environmental degradation. Jonathan B. Petkun, Foreign Affairs, 18 June 2024 In its reexamination of entrenched narratives about the expropriation of Native land, Michael Witgen’s work is changing how Native people are situated in the arc of North American history. Francisco Cantú, The New York Review of Books, 30 May 2024 The march was for an annual event called Land Day, centered in the Galilee but marked more broadly every March 30, to commemorate Palestinian opposition to Israeli expropriation of Arab land. Jennifer Ludden, NPR, 9 Apr. 2024 The business advisory also highlights risks associated with the proliferation and implementation of repressive laws, including expropriation and detention. Bennett Freeman, Fortune, 4 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for expropriation 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'expropriation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of expropriation was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near expropriation

Cite this Entry

“Expropriation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expropriation. Accessed 4 Jul. 2024.

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