forfeit

Forfeit refers to the loss or surrender of something as a penalty for breaking a rule, failing to meet an obligation, or otherwise violating terms. As a noun, a forfeit is something that has been lost as a consequence of wrongdoing or noncompliance, and the term can describe the act of losing itself. In law, forfeiture is the process by which property or rights are seized, terminated, or otherwise deprived due to wrongdoing, breach, or noncompliance. The word originated in Old French forfait, from forfaire “to do away with,” and entered English in the Middle Ages.

In sports and competitive contexts, a forfeit occurs when a participant or team cannot or will not participate in a scheduled contest. The opponent is declared the winner by official decision, and the result may be accompanied by a designated scoreline depending on the governing rules of the competition.

In law and contract, forfeiture describes the loss of rights, property, or a claim as a penalty or consequence of breach. Bail forfeiture arises when a defendant fails to appear in court, resulting in the surrender of the posted bail. Forfeiture clauses in contracts specify that certain rights or assets may be lost if obligations are not met. Civil forfeiture and criminal forfeiture are related but distinct mechanisms by which authorities may seize assets connected to criminal activity or accompanying a conviction.