forfeitures
|for-feit-ure|
🇺🇸
/ˈfɔːr.fɪ.tʃɚ/
🇬🇧
/ˈfɔː.fɪ.tʃə/
(forfeiture)
loss as a penalty
Etymology
'forfeiture' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'forfaiture', where 'forfait' referred to a breach, wrongdoing, or a penalty.
'forfeiture' changed from Old French 'forfaiture' into Middle English forms such as 'forfeture' and eventually became the modern English word 'forfeiture'.
Initially, it meant 'an act of wrongdoing or breach' and the associated penalty; over time it came to emphasize the resulting loss or seizure of property or rights as the penalty.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the loss or surrender of property or rights as a penalty for wrongdoing or breach of contract; the thing (property or right) that is seized or surrendered.
The government reported numerous drug-related forfeitures last year.
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Noun 2
monetary penalties or sums forfeited under the terms of a contract or regulation (e.g., fees or deposits that are lost when conditions are not met).
The contract contained clauses allowing forfeitures for missed deadlines.
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Noun 3
the act of forfeiting; the process or state of having something taken away because of an offense or breach.
Corporate forfeitures increased after the audit uncovered accounting fraud.
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Last updated: 2026/01/04 02:52