Emily Dickinson Lexicon

FOR'FEIT, n. [for'fit; Fr. forfaire; W. forfed; Low L. forisfactura. Originally, and still in French, a trespass, transgression, or crime. But with us, the effect of some transgression or offense.]

1. That which is forfeited or lost, or the right to which is alienated by a crime, offense, neglect of duty, or breach of contract; hence, a fine; a mulct; a penalty. He that murders pays the forfeit of his life. When a statute creates a penalty for a transgression, either in money or in corporal punishment, the offender who, on conviction, pays the money or suffers the punishment, pays the forfeit.
2. One whose life is forfeited. [Not used.] Shak.