subpoena
Americannoun
verb (used with object)
noun
verb
Etymology
Origin of subpoena
First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English, from Latin sub poenā “under penalty” (the first words of the writ)
Explanation
A subpoena is a document that requires its recipient to appear in court as a witness. If you receive a subpoena, it doesn't mean you've done anything wrong; it just means you may have information that's needed by the court. Subpoena can also be a verb: You can subpoena someone by giving them a subpoena. If you receive a subpoena but fail to carry out its instructions, you're in big trouble. This fact is suggested by the Latin roots of this word: the prefix sub- means "under" and poena means "penalty." One nice thing about a subpoena is that it's not a summons; if you get one of those, it means you're being sued.
Vocabulary lists containing subpoena
Latin Root "sub" Words
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To Kill a Mockingbird
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Just Mercy
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
When the Justice Department took aim at RIH, however, it sought to enforce its subpoena not in the Rhode Island federal courthouse.
From Slate • May 19, 2026
He almost immediately issued an order to enforce the subpoena before even giving the hospital a chance to respond.
From Slate • May 18, 2026
Judiciary sent the subpoena after Mr. Worthington’s lawyer said his client wouldn’t voluntarily appear for a transcribed interview, according to a letter to Mr. Worthington from committee Chairman Jim Jordan and subcommittee Chair Darrell Issa.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026
Shew said Estelle reached out shortly after he received the CBP’s subpoena.
From Salon • May 14, 2026
“Sheriff wants me to be ready to testify. I got a subpoena today.”
From "Mississippi Trial, 1955" by Chris Crowe
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
