summons: Meaning and Definition of

sum•mons

1. an authoritative command, message, or signal by which one is summoned.
2. a request, demand, or call to do something: a summons to surrender.
1. a call or citation by authority to appear before a court or a judicial officer.
2. the writ by which the call is made.
4. an authoritative call or notice to appear at a specified place, as for a particular purpose or duty.
5. a call issued for the meeting of an assembly or parliament.

1. to serve with a summons; summon.