Subpoena
mediumNeutral tonesuh-PEE-nuh
noun
Definition
a writ commanding a person to appear in court
Memory hook
SUBPOENA: 'sub-PEE-na' = 'under PENALTY' — a court paper warning that if you don't show up, the PENALTY drops on your head.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The committee issued a subpoena demanding the executive's testimony.”
“He ignored the subpoena and was promptly held in contempt.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The committee issued a ______ demanding the executive's testimony.”
Show answer
subpoena
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Subpoena is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "summons" or "writ" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "dismissal".
Related GRE Words
admonish
To warn or reprimand someone firmly
censure
To express severe disapproval of someone or something, especially in a formal statement
definitive
Done or reached decisively and with authority; conclusive
inculpate
To accuse or incriminate someone; to show or suggest that someone is guilty of wrongdoing
rescind
to revoke or cancel (a law, order, or agreement)
stipulate
to specify as a condition of an agreement
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