What is the definition of "expropriate"?

The term "expropriate" refers specifically to the act of taking possession of property, often for public use and typically involving compensation to the owner. This definition is particularly relevant in contexts such as government actions where private property may be acquired for infrastructure projects or other public purposes. Expropriation can be seen as a legal process where authorities aim to justify their need for land or property by balancing individual property rights with the collective interest of society. The understanding of this term is crucial in fields such as law, real estate, and public policy, where the implications of property ownership and governmental authority are often debated.