Forfeit

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Forfeit

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun, verb, and adjective

Pronunciation

FOR-fit  /ˈfɔːfɪt/

Definition

As a noun: something lost or surrendered as a penalty; a penalty for a breach of rules. As a verb: to lose or give up something as a penalty for an offence or failure. As an adjective: lost or surrendered as a penalty.

Plain meaning

A forfeit is something you lose because you broke a rule or failed to meet an obligation. To forfeit is to lose something as a punishment — forfeit your deposit, forfeit your right to appeal.

Register

Formal in legal and contractual contexts. Standard and neutral in sports and competitive contexts. Playful in game contexts.