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forfeiture

Noun
pl: forfeitures

This term carries a heavy legal and punitive weight, evoking the image of a forced surrender rather than a voluntary gift. It is most frequently encountered in judicial proceedings or formal contracts where a failure to meet a specific obligation triggers an automatic loss of assets or rights. In sports and competitive gaming, the word shifts from a financial or legal context to a procedural one, signifying a loss by default. In these instances, it emphasizes the failure to comply with the rules of participation rather than a criminal penalty.

Meanings

Noun

The loss of a right, property, or privilege as a consequence of a crime, a breach of contract, or a failure to fulfill a legal obligation.

"The court ordered the forfeiture of the defendant's assets to the state."

Noun

The act of giving up something valuable as a penalty or as a requirement for a specific action.

"The forfeiture of the deposit occurred because the buyer backed out of the deal."

Noun

The loss of a game, match, or contest because one side fails to appear or violates the rules.

"The team suffered a forfeiture after failing to field enough players for the final match."

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Last Updated: June 14, 2026Report an Error