subpoena

UK: səˈpiːnə | US: səˈpiːnə

Definition

  1. n. a writ ordering a person to attend a court

  2. vt. to summon someone with a subpoena

Structure
sub <under>poena <punishment>
Etymology

The word "subpoena" originates from Latin, combining "sub" (under) and "poena" (penalty or punishment). Historically, it referred to a legal document that compelled someone to appear in court "under penalty" of law—meaning failure to comply would result in punishment. Over time, it evolved into its modern legal usage as a formal summons.

Examples

  1. The lawyer issued a subpoena to the witness.

  2. She was subpoenaed to testify in the trial.

  3. Ignoring a subpoena can lead to contempt charges.

  4. The judge signed the subpoena for financial records.

  5. The company received a subpoena for its internal documents.