forfeiture

noun

for·​fei·​ture ˈfȯr-fə-ˌchu̇r How to pronounce forfeiture (audio)
-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

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.
According to its website, the team is composed of attorneys from across the Justice Department, including prosecutors with backgrounds in cryptocurrency, cybercrime, money laundering and forfeiture. Josh Meyer, USA Today, 8 Apr. 2025 He was ordered to pay $205,000 in forfeiture, in addition to $375,000 in restitution but still hasn’t submitted payments for either fine. Ashleigh Fields, The Hill, 5 Apr. 2025 As part of his plea deal, Santos agreed to pay nearly $375,000 in restitution and $205,000 in forfeiture. Philip Marcelo, Los Angeles Times, 5 Apr. 2025 The president’s action removes the criminal penalty imposed on Watson, 55, and Ozy, which include a judge’s order in February holding them jointly responsible for paying almost $60 million in forfeiture and more than $36 million in restitution. Dan Mangan, CNBC, 28 Mar. 2025 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 23 Apr. 2025.

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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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