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

• damages
• fine
• forfeit
• mulct
• 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

Additionally, financial loss affects restitution or forfeiture amounts that defendants must pay after serving their sentences. —Walter Pavlo, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025

The findings outline the amount each of Trump’s pardon recipients owed in restitution, forfeiture, and fines. —Lauren Green, The Washington Examiner, 18 June 2025

What's next: Weninger is also pushing legislation that would put a portion of cryptocurrency in the reserve fund when obtained by the state through asset forfeiture in criminal cases. —Jeremy Duda, Axios, 12 May 2025

Prosecutors also seek as much as $3.1 million in a forfeiture hearing. —Jason Meisner, Chicago Tribune, 4 Apr. 2025

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