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

If Combs is convicted, the jury must then decide how much of his empire is subject to forfeiture, according to Cassella, Trusty, Justice Department law and a breakdown of RICO and asset forfeiture statutes by Cornell Law School’s Legal Information Institute. —Josh Meyer, USA Today, 15 May 2025

Sacks said the reserve would be funded exclusively through tokens seized in criminal and civil forfeiture cases, ensuring no taxpayer burden. —Mackenzie Sigalos, CNBC, 14 Mar. 2025

Per the latest tweet on X, this Summit comes after news that President Trump has signed an Executive Order establishing a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, capitalized with Bitcoin obtained through federal asset forfeiture, ensuring no cost to taxpayers. —Sandy Carter, Forbes, 7 Mar. 2025

Under Trump’s executive order, the Treasury Department would set up an office to administer the reserve, which will be capitalized with bitcoin confiscated by the government as part of criminal or civil asset forfeiture proceedings. —Allison Morrow, CNN, 7 Mar. 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