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DictionarycitationLegal notice
noun

citation

An official notice of a violation or an order to appear in court.

The officer issues a citation for parking beside the clearly marked fire hydrant.

Etymology
citLatinsummon; call forth
+ationEnglishaction or result

The Latin verb includes summoning someone. A legal citation preserves that official calling, whether requiring an appearance or formally notifying someone of a recorded violation.

More examples

  • The notice is a citation to appear in court.
  • She reads the violation listed on the citation.
  • Several drivers received citations that morning.

Forms

citation · citations

Similar words

fine
A fine is a monetary penalty; a citation is the official notice or summons.