writ
UK: rɪt | US: rɪt
n. a formal written order issued by a court or legal authority
n. (archaic) a piece of writing; a document
The word "writ" originates from Old English gewrit, meaning "something written" or "a document," derived from the Proto-Germanic writą (a scratch or carving, later extended to writing). It is closely tied to the verb "write," reflecting its legal evolution from general written documents to specific court orders. The term preserves its core meaning of formal written authority, rooted in the Germanic tradition of recording laws and decrees.
The judge issued a writ to compel the witness to testify.
In medieval times, royal writs were used to enforce the king's commands.
The lawyer filed a writ of habeas corpus to challenge the detention.
Ancient writs often bore the seal of the issuing authority.
The writ was delivered to the sheriff for immediate execution.