summons
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈsʌmənz/
KK: /ˈsʌmənz/
noun
Definition
A request or notice from an authority for someone to come to a specific place or to do something, often related to legal matters.
Example
He received a summons to appear in court next week.
Conversation
Did you get a summons in the mail yesterday?
Yeah, I did! It's for jury duty next month.
I hope it's not too inconvenient for you.
Me too, but I guess it's my civic duty.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
citation
notification
order
Antonyms
dismissal
release
exemption
transitive verb
Definition
To officially call someone to appear in court or to respond to a legal matter.
Example
The court issued a summons for the witness to appear at the trial.
Tense Forms
Past: summoned
Past Participle: summoned
Conversation
Did you hear about the new case they're working on at the firm?
Yeah, I heard they had to summons several witnesses last week.
That's intense! I hope they can get all the information they need.
Root Explanation
Summons → It is formed from "summon" (from Old French *somon*, meaning to call or send for) and "-s" (a suffix used to form nouns). The word "summons" refers to a call or notice to appear, especially in a legal context.
Memory Tip
Think of a call to appear or respond — that's what a summons is, as it comes from the idea of being called or sent for.
Visually Confused Words
resummons
nonsummons
resummon