subpoena

or sub·pe·na

[ suh-pee-nuh, suhb- ]

noun

1. the usual writ for the summoning of witnesses or the submission of evidence, as records or documents, before a court or other deliberative body.

verb (used with object)

, sub·poe·naed, sub·poe·na·ing.

1. to serve with a subpoena.

subpoena

/ səbˈpiːnə; səˈpiːnə /

noun

1. a writ issued by a court of justice requiring a person to appear before the court at a specified time

verb

1. tr to serve with a subpoena

subpoena

1. An order of a court, a legislature, or a grand jury compelling a witness to be present at a trial or hearing, under penalty of fine or imprisonment. Subpoena is Latin for “under penalty.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of subpoena¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English, from Latin sub poenā “under penalty” (the first words of the writ)

Word History and Origins

Origin of subpoena¹

C15: from Latin: under penalty

Example Sentences

In January 2020, as part of an effort to improve oversight of the Sheriff’s Department, the county adopted an ordinance that gave subpoena power to certain oversight officials.

From Los Angeles Times

The scientist, who was not charged, has sued the government for allegedly disclosing private information about her from the investigation, leading to a subpoena to Ms. Herridge.

From New York Times

A number of investigations have centred on Adams and those in his orbit - leading to subpoenas, law enforcement raids and a flurry of resignations of top officials who help lead New York City.

From BBC

From 2017-2021, when Democrats controlled at least one chamber of Congress, Trump and members of his administration regularly defied congressional subpoenas.

From Salon

The Texas Supreme Court ruled that a legislative subpoena can not be used to stall an execution, putting the death of Robert Roberson back on the docket.

From Salon

Related Words

• cite
• summon