forfeited

Forfeited is the past participle of the verb forfeit, and in general use describes something that has been lost or surrendered as a penalty or consequence. It also functions as an adjective to describe property, rights, or stakes that have been surrendered or confiscated. The concept emphasizes automatic loss due to rule violations, contractual breaches, or legal penalties, rather than voluntary relinquishment.

Common contexts include law and government, where rights or property may be forfeited for criminal activity, nonpayment of taxes, or failure to comply with regulatory conditions. In contracts, deposits, fees, or stakes may be forfeited if a party breaches terms or fails to meet obligations. In sports or competitions, a team or individual may forfeit a match if unable to participate or if rules are breached. In gaming and wagering, bets or winnings can be forfeited when conditions of the wager are not met or when illegality or fraud is involved.

Consequences of forfeiture commonly include the loss of ownership, monetary stakes, licenses, or privileges, and they may be automatic by operation of law or determined by a court, regulator, or contract. Some cases allow for relief, remediation, or appeals, depending on jurisdiction or the governing terms of the agreement.

See also: forfeit, forfeiture. Forfeited items are typically described according to the rules of the relevant jurisdiction or contract, and the language used often indicates the source of the loss and the party enforcing it.