forfeiture

noun

for·​fei·​ture ˈfȯr-fə-ˌchu̇r 

-chər, 

-ˌt(y)u̇r

1

: the act of forfeiting : the loss of property or money because of a breach of a legal obligation

assets subject to forfeiture

2

: something (such as money or property) that is forfeited : penalty

Synonyms of forfeiture

• penalty
• fine
• damages

Examples of forfeiture in a Sentence

the forfeiture for early withdrawal of the investment savings will be an amount equal to 10 percent of the investment

Recent Examples on the Web

In Wisconsin, a first-time OWI conviction is treated as a civil forfeiture rather than a crime. — Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 31 July 2026

To enhance competitive balance, the MLBPA suggested allowing revenue-sharing teams to increase their bonus pools and reducing penalties for exceeding spending limits by eliminating draft pick forfeiture. — Dan Freedman, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

Edward Hones, an employment attorney and owner of Hones Law Seattle Employment Lawyers, told Fortune the forfeiture provision is essentially a non-compete wearing a different outfit. — Sydney Lake, Fortune, 16 July 2026

The figure includes money recovered through criminal and civil cases, including penalties, settlements, restitution, asset forfeitures and losses alleged in pending cases, according to the task force. — Elisabeth Buchwald, CNN Money, 14 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for forfeiture

• nonforfeiture

Kids Definition

forfeiture

noun

for·​fei·​ture ˈfȯr-fə-ˌchu̇(ə)r 

-chər

1

: the act of forfeiting

2

: something forfeited : penalty

Legal Definition

forfeiture

noun

for·​fei·​ture ˈfȯr-fə-ˌchu̇r 

1

: the loss of a right, money, or especially property because of one's criminal act, default, or failure or neglect to perform a duty compare waiver

2

: something (as money or property) that is forfeited as a penalty