'subpoena' originates from Latin, specifically the phrase 'sub poena,' where 'sub' meant 'under' and 'poena' meant 'penalty.'

'sub poena' transformed into the English word 'subpoena' and has been used in legal contexts since the 15th century.

Initially, it meant 'under penalty,' referring to the consequences of not complying with the order, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.