oyez
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /oʊˈjeɪ/
KK: /oʊˈjeɪ/
interjection
Definition
A call used to get people's attention, especially in a court setting, often repeated three times.
Example
The judge called out 'oyez, oyez, oyez' to bring the court to order.
Conversation
Hey, did you hear the judge say oyez in the courtroom yesterday?
No, I missed that! What does it even mean?
It's just like a way to get everyone's attention before starting the session.
That makes sense! I always wondered why they use that phrase.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
hear
listen
attend
Antonyms
noun
Definition
A call used to get people's attention, especially in a court setting, often used to announce the beginning of a session.
Example
The judge called for order with an oyez before starting the trial.
Conversation
Have you ever heard the term oyez?
Yeah, it's that cry they use in court, right?
Exactly! It's used to get everyone's attention before a hearing starts.
Root Explanation
Oyez originates from Old French 'oiez', which is the second person plural imperative form of 'oïr', meaning to hear. It is used as a call for attention, particularly in a court setting, meaning 'hear ye' or 'listen'.
Memory Tip
Imagine someone calling out 'hear ye' to grab attention — that's what 'oyez' means.
Visually Confused Words
yez