WorldAugust 13, 2026

expropriate

ek-SPROH-pree-ayt

Definition

To officially take property from its owner for public use or as a result of a legal or government act, often with or without compensation.

Etymology

Originating from the Latin word 'expropriare', the word combines 'ex-' meaning 'out' and 'proprius' meaning 'one's own'. It entered English in the 17th century to describe the act of dispossessing someone of their property.

In the news

The article discusses the South African Expropriation Act, which governs the government's ability to take land for public interest. It highlights a conflict between the US administration's claim that the law enables property seizure without compensation and the South African government's assertion that it requires legal, equitable processes.

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