mandamus

American  

[man-dey-muhs] / mænˈdeɪ məs /

noun

plural

mandamuses

1. a writ from a superior court to an inferior court or to an officer, corporation, etc., commanding that a specified thing be done.

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verb (used with object)

1. to intimidate or serve with such writ.

mandamus British  

/ mænˈdeɪməs /

noun

1. law formerly a writ from, now an order of, a superior court commanding an inferior tribunal, public official, corporation, etc, to carry out a public duty

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Etymology

Origin of mandamus

From the Latin word mandāmus we command

Example Sentences

“If I were working on this, I would file a writ of mandamus ASAP,” defense lawyer Glenn Danas, a partner at the Clarkson Law Firm, told Slate.

From Salon • May 16, 2024

Dennison that the state had no discretion to deny extradition on human rights concerns, but also that the federal courts lacked the ability to compel it through a write of mandamus.

From Slate • Jul. 29, 2022

The Supreme Court ruling only dismisses the petition — submitted by a group of parents in Chesapeake — that sought an unconventional form of relief called a writ of mandamus.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 7, 2022

The Supreme Court ruling only dismisses the petition - submitted by a group of parents in Chesapeake - that sought an unconventional form of relief called a writ of mandamus.

From Washington Times • Feb. 7, 2022

Wherefore the complainant humbly sued for judgment, we presume it might be called a writ mandamus amare.

From Women of Mediæval France Woman: in all ages and in all countries Vol. 5 (of 10) by Butler, Pierce