forfeiture

noun

for·​fei·​ture ˈfȯr-fə-ˌchu̇r How to pronounce forfeiture (audio)
-chər
-ˌt(y)u̇r
Synonyms of forfeiturenext
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.
The State of New Jersey is seeking the forfeiture of vehicles, electronic devices, and financial documents and has filed a complaint in Hunterdon County Superior Court. Sean Joseph Outkick, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026 Failure to submit a complete W-9 or equivalent will result in forfeiture of the Prize. AJC.com, 30 June 2026 Failure to comply with these requirements may result in disqualification and/or forfeiture of the prize, to the extent permitted by law. Kelli Bender, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026 He was sentenced to 87 months in prison and ordered to pay almost $374,000 in restitution and over $200,000 in forfeiture. Matt Lavietes, NBC news, 3 June 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Forfeiture.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/forfeiture. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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
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