Emily Dickinson Lexicon

CON'FIS-CATE, v.t. [L. confisco; con and fiscus, a basket, hamper or bag; hence, revenue or the emperor's treasure; It. confiscare; Fr. confisquer; Sp. confiscar.]

To adjudge to be forfeited to the public treasury, as the goods or estate of a traitor or other criminal, by way of penalty; or to condemn private forfeited property to public use. The estate of the rebels was seized and confiscated. – Anon.