What does "forfeit" mean in legal documents? Forfeit is a term that refers to losing something valuable, like a right, privilege, or property, without receiving anything in return. This usually happens because someone has broken a law, failed to meet a legal obligation, or neglected a duty. Imagine you borrowed a friend’s favorite video game and promised to return it in a week. If you don’t return it on time, your friend might decide to keep it, and you would forfeit your right to borrow ... forfeit something to lose or give something up as a necessary consequence of something that you have done. If you cancel your flight, you will forfeit your deposit. Definition of forfeit verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. Forfeit definition: To lose or give up (something) on account of an offense, error, or failure to fulfill an agreement. FORFEIT definition: 1. to lose the right to do or have something because you have broken a rule: 2. to decide not to…. Learn more.