Private Property Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Private Property, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Private Property?

History and Meaning of Private Property

Private property refers to a legal concept that defines the ownership of property by individuals or non-governmental legal entities, such as corporations. The idea of private property has a long and complex history. It has been an essential component of Western political philosophy since its inception in ancient Greece. The concept was later developed in medieval England, where it became a cornerstone of common law.

Examples of Private Property

Here are a few examples of private property:

1. A family home in which an individual or family has complete ownership.
2. A private business owned by a sole proprietor or a group of individuals.
3. A piece of land bought by an individual or corporation that is then used for a specific purpose, such as building a commercial building or a private park.
4. A car or other personal item that is owned by an individual and not used for commercial purposes.

Legal Terms Similar to Private Property

Here are some legal terms that are related to private property:

1. Public property: This refers to property that is owned by the government or society. Examples include parks, public buildings, and infrastructure.
2. Common property: This refers to property that is owned by a group of individuals or the community at large. Examples include forests, lakes, and other natural resources.
3. Eminent domain: This gives the government the power to take private property for public use, provided that the owner is compensated fairly.
4. Intellectual property: This refers to legal rights that protect creative works or inventions, such as patents, copyrights, or trademarks.