Obs. Forms: 4 forȝefthe, -ȝyft, 4–5 -gyft, (5 -yifte). [f. FORGIVE v. after GIFT.] Forgiveness.

1

c. 1315.  Shoreham, 40.

        Two thynges her wythynne beth,
  For-ȝefthe and repentynge.

2

c. 1380.  Sir Ferumb., 5736.

        Þou most byleue on holychurche, After hure lawe for-to wurche,
                        And on for-ȝyft of synne.

3

1532.  Wedn. Faste (W. de W.). Kynge Davyd fasted for mercy! Nineve dyd ye same And had forgyft of synne.

4