# forfeiture

/ˈfɔɹfətʃɝ/ (US) · /fˈɔːfeɪtʃɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/forfeiture
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

the loss of property, money, or a right because you broke a rule or a law. It is a type of punishment where you are forced to give something up.

For teachers: the loss of property, rights, or assets as a direct consequence of a breach of legal obligation, neglect of duty, or criminal activity.

## Examples

- The contract includes a clause for the forfeiture of the deposit.
- Failure to meet the strict project deadlines resulted in the forfeiture of the company's performance bond.
- The court ordered the forfeiture of all assets acquired through the illegal enterprise, ensuring that the defendants could not profit from their criminal activities after serving their sentences.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the general legal process; countable when referring to a specific instance or penalty.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.