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Definition of forfeit

forfeit

/ˈfɔːrfɪt/
for · feit

Plural:forfeits
•
Past Simple:forfeited
•
Past Participle:forfeited
•
Present Participle:forfeiting
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forfeit Lexical Profile

forfeit Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To lose or be deprived of property, a right, or a privilege as a penalty for wrongdoing or a breach of rules.

Example

"If you do not claim your prize within thirty days, you will forfeit your right to the winnings."


2

To concede a game, match, or contest by default, withdrawal, or disqualification.

Example

"After three of their starting players fell ill, the university debate team had to forfeit the tournament."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A fine, penalty, or something surrendered as the consequence of an error, offense, or failure to fulfill an obligation.

Example

"Under the terms of the lease, the tenant had to pay a substantial forfeit for breaking the contract early."


2

The loss of a game or match resulting from an inability to play or a violation of the rules.

Example

"The visiting soccer team arrived without enough eligible players, resulting in an automatic forfeit."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adjective

1

Lost or surrendered as a penalty for a fault, mistake, or breach of a rule.

Example

"Because the company failed to meet the construction deadline, their entire security deposit was declared forfeit."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed into Middle English from Old French 'forfait' ('a crime, offense, or fine'), the past participle of 'forfaire' ('to transgress'), from Medieval Latin 'forisfacere' ('to act beyond what is permitted'), combining Latin 'foris' ('outside') and 'facere' ('to do or make').

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Forfeit. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/forfeit
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