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

Failure to submit a complete W-9 or equivalent will result in forfeiture of the Prize. —AJC.com, 6 Mar. 2026

The city will use state and federal forfeiture funds to pay for the boat. —Fousia Abdullahi, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Mar. 2026

The revelation led to medal forfeitures, and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) also suspended the International Sports Federation for Persons with an Intellectual Disability (INAS), now known as Virtus, in 2001. —ABC News, 2 Mar. 2026

The city filed a notice against the LLC for breaching the contract, followed by an affidavit in support of forfeiture of the real estate in December, according to the Polk County recorder's website. —Kate Kealey, Des Moines Register, 23 Feb. 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