forfeiture

noun

for·​fei·​ture ˈfȯr-fə-ˌchu̇r How to pronounce forfeiture (audio)
-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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First, contact a lawyer who has experience with asset forfeiture. Sacbee.com, 2 Oct. 2025 The judge imposed a forfeiture judgment of $22 million, per prosecutors. Christine Pelisek, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025 Potential punishments would include fines, suspensions, forfeiture of draft picks and termination of Leonard’s contract with the Clippers. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 30 Sep. 2025 Pocknett had several arguments against the seizure and the forfeiture. Flint McColgan, Boston Herald, 26 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for forfeiture

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of forfeiture was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Forfeiture.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/forfeiture. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

forfeiture

noun
for·​fei·​ture ˈfȯr-fə-ˌchu̇(ə)r How to pronounce forfeiture (audio)
-chər
1
: the act of forfeiting
2
: something forfeited : penalty

Legal Definition

forfeiture

noun
for·​fei·​ture ˈfȯr-fə-ˌchu̇r How to pronounce forfeiture (audio)
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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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