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

His sentence included 97 months' imprisonment, five years of supervised release, restitution of $30,500, forfeiture of specific property, and a $100 special assessment. —Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024

As part of the verdict for his role in the FTX fraud, SBF faces forfeiture of $11 billion in addition to his two and half decades in prison. —Steven Ehrlich, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024

Government forfeiture of assets has become a controversial topic in legal circles. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 3 Dec. 2024

And most glaringly, will Francis ever pay the remaining $50 million he’s expected to owe the government in forfeiture and restitution? —Alex Riggins, The Mercury News, 4 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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