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)

subpoenaed, subpoenaing 

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

Wiener’s bill, if signed in to law, would protect patients and providers from federal officials attempting to access a state database of patients’ prescription history without a warrant, subpoena, or court order.

From Los Angeles Times

At the news conference, Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin warned that if officials fail to cooperate, the panel is ready to issue subpoenas to compel them to do so.

From Los Angeles Times

The Democrat also credited MSNBC’s Lawrence O’Donnell for a July 23 interview with a lawyer for Epstein survivors who suggested the Oversight Committee subpoena Epstein’s estate for the birthday book.

From Salon

Democrats in Congress released copies of the so-called "birthday book" after the documents were subpoenaed by the House Oversight Committee last month.

From BBC

The new congressional investigation, which will be led by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, will give senators the power to issue subpoenas and seek documents for the committee’s review.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• decree 
• mandate 
• summons 
• warrant