unjust enrichment
noun
unjust en·rich·ment
1
: the retaining of a benefit (as money) conferred by another when principles of equity and justice call for restitution to the other party
also
: the retaining of property acquired especially by fraud from another in circumstances that demand the judicial imposition of a constructive trust on behalf of those who in equity ought to receive it see also quasi contract sense 1 at contract
2
: a doctrine that requires an equitable remedy on behalf of one who has been injured by the unjust enrichment of another
Cite this Entry
“Unjust enrichment.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/unjust%20enrichment. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.
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