Definition

A person who loses something, usually as a penalty for not following rules or agreements.

Example

The forfeiter lost their deposit because they canceled the reservation too late.

Conversation

Did you hear about the player who became a forfeiter in the tournament?

Yeah, I can't believe they lost because of that rule!

It's such a shame; they had a good chance to win.

Totally! Now everyone will remember them as a forfeiter instead of a champion.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Forfeiter is formed from "forfeit" (from Old French *forfait*, meaning to give up or lose) and "-er" (meaning a person who). A forfeiter is a person who gives up or loses something, typically as a penalty.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'gives up' something ('forfeit') — the '-er' just means a person. A forfeiter is someone who loses something.

Visually Confused Words