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

The forfeiture was included in the indictment filed against Madigan in March 2022, however the numbers have fluctuated slightly as the evidence was presented. —Ray Long, Chicago Tribune, 31 Mar. 2025

Those who tried to skirt the requirement risked their children being kicked out of the tournament and the forfeiture of all their team’s games – without a refund of entry fees, usually between $1,000 and $2,000 per team. —Kenny Jacoby, USA TODAY, 24 Mar. 2025

The indictment also seeks the forfeiture of the firearms and cash seized during the searches. —Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 21 Mar. 2025

The order explicitly states that the government will not purchase additional bitcoin beyond what is acquired through criminal or civil forfeiture without further executive or legislative action. —Becca Bratcher, Forbes, 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