What is meant by eminent domain?

Eminent domain refers to the government's power to take private property for public use, provided that the property owner is fairly compensated. This principle is anchored in the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which states that private property cannot be taken for public use without just compensation.

The concept of eminent domain is crucial for enabling the government to carry out projects that benefit the public, such as building roads, schools, or parks. The requirement for fair compensation ensures that property owners are not left at a loss when their property is taken for a greater societal benefit.

The other options presented do not reflect the definition of eminent domain and pertain to different governmental powers or processes, which further clarifies why the correct answer accurately represents the term's meaning.