summons etymology

Etymology

The word "summons" originates from the Latin verb "summonere," meaning "to call or summon." It has been in use in the English language since the early 14th century.

Meaning

A summons is a formal document that orders a person to appear before a court of law or other official body. It typically includes information about the case, the date and time of the appearance, and the potential consequences of non-compliance.

Origin

The concept of summonses dates back to ancient times. In Roman law, the praetor could issue a "vocatio in ius," a formal summons compelling a person to appear before a court. In the medieval English legal system, summonses were used to initiate various legal proceedings, including civil actions, criminal prosecutions, and administrative inquiries.

The use of summonses has continued to evolve over time. Today, they are an essential part of the legal process in many countries around the world. They serve as a means of giving notice to individuals of legal proceedings and ensuring their compliance with court orders.

summons relate terms

  • summon

    Etymology The word summon comes from the Middle English word somnen which is derived

  • monitory

    Etymology and Meaning Origin Late Latin monitorium present participle of monēre to

  • summon

    Etymology The word summon comes from the Middle English word somnen which is derived

  • summons

    Etymology The word summons originates from the Latin verb summonere meaning to call

  • cite

    Etymology Cite derives from the Middle English word cite which in turn comes from the

  • process

    Etymology The word process comes from the Latin word processus meaning advancement

  • call

    Etymology Call derives from the Proto Germanic root kallan meaning to call proc

  • convocation

    Etymology Latin convocare to summon or call together Prefix con with verb

  • citation

    Etymology The word citation originates from the Latin word citare which means to ca

  • peal

    Etymology The word peal comes from the Middle English word pelen meaning to make a

  • vouch

    Etymology The word vouch comes from the Old French word voucher which in turn comes

  • rally

    Etymology The word rally comes from the Old French word rallier which means to gath

  • order

    Etymology From Middle English ordre ordre from Anglo Norman ordre from Old French or