subpena
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /səˈpiːnə/
KK: /səbˈpiːnə/
noun
Definition
A legal document that orders a person to attend a court proceeding or produce evidence.
Example
The lawyer issued a subpena to the witness to ensure their appearance at the trial.
Conversation
Did you hear about the subpena that was issued yesterday?
Yeah, I heard it was a big deal for the case.
I can't believe they actually had to serve a subpena to someone I know.
That's pretty surprising! I hope it doesn't get too complicated.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
summons
writ
order
Antonyms
permission
exemption
release
transitive verb
Definition
Not a valid English word.
Example
Not available.
Tense Forms
Past: Not available
Past Participle: Not available
Conversation
Did you hear about the lawyer who had to subpena a witness for the trial?
Yeah, I read about that; it sounded complicated.
I wonder how often they actually have to subpena people in cases like that.
Root Explanation
**Subpoena** → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under) and "poena" (meaning penalty or punishment). The term refers to a legal document that commands a person to appear in court under the penalty of punishment for failing to do so.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'under' ('sub-') a 'penalty' ('poena') if you do not appear in court — that’s what a subpoena means.
Visually Confused Words
supernal