Forfeit

/ˈfɔː.fɪt/ · noun

Meaning

A penalty for or consequence of a misdemeanor..

Definitions by Sense

1. A penalty for or consequence of a misdemeanor.
2. A thing forfeited; that which is taken from somebody in requital of a misdeed committed; that which is lost, or the right to which is alienated, by a crime, breach of contract, etc.
3. Something deposited and redeemable by a sportive fine as part of a game.
4. (obsolete, rare) Injury; wrong; mischief.
5. To suffer the loss of something by wrongdoing or non-compliance
6. To lose a contest, game, match, or other form of competition by voluntary withdrawal, by failing to attend or participate, or by violation of the rules
7. To be guilty of a misdeed; to be criminal; to transgress.
8. To fail to keep an obligation.

Example Sentences

That he our deadly forfeit should release

He who murders pays the forfeit of his own life.

Thy slanders I forgive; and therewithal / Remit thy other forfeits.

Country dances and forfeits shortened the rest of the day.

a. 1789, Barry St. Leger, Siege of Nicopolis to seek arms upon people and country that never did us any forfeit

He forfeited his last chance of an early release from jail by repeatedly attacking another inmate.

Because only nine players were present, the football team was forced to forfeit the game.

I will have the heart of him if he forfeit.

Synonyms for forfeit

Antonyms for forfeit

Related Words

Word Forms

• forfeits
• forfeiting
• forfeited
• forfeit

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

Practice and Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions