subpoena — a legal document ordering someone to appear in court or produce evidence
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a legal document ordering someone to appear in court or produce evidence
Pronunciation (IPA): /səˈpiːnə/
Example Sentences
- The celebrity tried to hide from the subpoena server behind designer sunglasses and a fake mustache.
- The committee has the power to subpoena witnesses and documents.
- His lawyer warned him that ignoring a federal subpoena would land him in serious trouble.
subpoena
NOUN[/səˈpiːnə/]
a legal document ordering someone to appear in court or produce evidence

a uniformed process server extends an official-looking document toward a surprised businessman in a suit. The businessman reaches out reluctantly to accept the formal paper with a worried expression on his face. The document represents his legal obligation to appear in court as a witness. His acceptance of the paper means he must now comply with the court's requirements. A lawyer in the background points toward the courthouse entrance, indicating where he must go. Other people in business attire walk up the courthouse steps, showing the formal legal environment. a legal document ordering someone to appear in court or produce evidence
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin subpoena, literally meaning 'under penalty.' This legal term comes from the opening words of medieval court writs that commanded appearance 'under penalty' of punishment for non-compliance.
Breakdown
sub- (under) + poena (penalty/punishment)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The celebrity tried to hide from the subpoena server behind designer sunglasses and a fake mustache.”
“The committee has the power to subpoena witnesses and documents.”
“His lawyer warned him that ignoring a federal subpoena would land him in serious trouble.”
“She joked that getting a subpoena was worse than getting a parking ticket - at least you can ignore those.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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