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.