forfeiture Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun something that is lost or surrendered as a penalty;
    forfeit.
  2. noun a penalty for a fault or mistake that involves losing or giving up something
    forfeit.
    • the contract specified forfeits if the work was not completed on time
  3. noun the act of losing or surrendering something as a penalty for a mistake or fault or failure to perform etc.
    forfeit; sacrifice.

WordNet

For"fei*ture noun
Etymology
F. forfeiture, LL. forisfactura.
Definitions
  1. The act of forfeiting; the loss of some right, privilege, estate, honor, office, or effects, by an offense, crime, breach of condition, or other act.
    Under pain of foreiture of the said goods. Hakluyt.
  2. That which is forfeited; a penalty; a fine or mulct.
    What should I gain By the exaction of the forfeiture? Shak.
    Syn. -- Fine; mulct; amercement; penalty.

Webster 1913