Oyez
interjection
A call for attention in a court of law.
The bailiff entered the court stating, 'Oyez! Oyez! The court is now in session!'

Often appears as...
- 'oyez
- oyez
Usage tips
Formal
Technical
interjection
A call for attention in a court of law.
The bailiff entered the court stating, 'Oyez! Oyez! The court is now in session!'

Often appears as...
- 'oyez
- oyez
Usage tips
Formal
Technical
Definition 1 of 1

Courtroom Exclusivity
Used primarily in legal settings to command attention before proceedings begin.

As the judge entered, the clerk exclaimed, 'Oyez! Oyez! All rise!'
Historic Origin
Rooted in Old French, it was traditionally used by town criers to grab public attention.

In history classes, you might learn that 'Oyez!' was once a call to gather villagers for announcements.
Solemnity Indicator
Signals formality and solemnity; it's not used casually or in conversation.

The somber tone of the courtroom matched the bailiff's stern 'Oyez!' as the session started.
Courtroom Exclusivity
Used primarily in legal settings to command attention before proceedings begin.

As the judge entered, the clerk exclaimed, 'Oyez! Oyez! All rise!'
Historic Origin
Rooted in Old French, it was traditionally used by town criers to grab public attention.

In history classes, you might learn that 'Oyez!' was once a call to gather villagers for announcements.
Solemnity Indicator
Signals formality and solemnity; it's not used casually or in conversation.

The somber tone of the courtroom matched the bailiff's stern 'Oyez!' as the session started.
Courtroom Exclusivity
Used primarily in legal settings to command attention before proceedings begin.

As the judge entered, the clerk exclaimed, 'Oyez! Oyez! All rise!'
Historic Origin
Rooted in Old French, it was traditionally used by town criers to grab public attention.

In history classes, you might learn that 'Oyez!' was once a call to gather villagers for announcements.
Solemnity Indicator
Signals formality and solemnity; it's not used casually or in conversation.

The somber tone of the courtroom matched the bailiff's stern 'Oyez!' as the session started.
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