forfeit

Definition

A penalty for or consequence of a misdemeanor.

Etymology

From Middle English forfait from ca. 1300, from Old French forfait (“crime”), originally the past participle of forfaire (“to transgress”), and Medieval Latin foris factum. During the 15th century, the sense shifted from the crime to the penalty for the crime.

Example Sentences

• "That he our deadly forfeit should release"
• "He who murders pays the forfeit of his own life."
• "Thy slanders I forgive; and therewithal / Remit thy other forfeits."