Meaning & Definition of word "Summons"

Summons

/ˈsʌmənz/

noun:

  • 1. An official order to appear in a court of law.
    • Example: She received a summons to testify in the court case.
  • 2. A call or request to perform a specific task or duty.
    • Example: The summons for volunteers went out to the entire community.

verb:

  • 1. To urgently call upon someone to be present.
    • Example: The manager summoned the entire team for an emergency meeting.
  • 2. To bring a person before a court by a summons.
    • Example: He was summoned by the court to appear as a witness.

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French 'somonse', from the verb 'somons' meaning to summon.

Common Phrases and Expressions

show cause summons:

A court order requiring a person to explain why a certain course of action should not be taken.

summons for a witness:

A request for a witness to appear and provide testimony in a legal case.

issue a summons:

To formally draft and send a summons to an individual.

Related Words

subpoena:

A legal order requiring a person to attend a court proceeding.

citation:

A reference to a legal case, or a document that commands an appearance.

notice:

A formal notification or warning.

Slang Meanings of summons

Meaning: A call to action or duty, often used informally.

Example Sentence: He got a summons to step up his game in the team.

Meaning: A quick reminder or notification, often used in a fun context.

Example Sentence: I sent out a summons for the gang to meet at the park.