oyes
Definition
- Interjection:
- A call for silence and attention: "oyes" (also spelled "oyez") is a traditional interjection used in courts of law, public announcements, or formal proclamations to command silence and attention before a declaration is made. It is typically uttered three times by a court crier or herald.
Usage Examples
- Interjection:
- "Oyes, oyes, oyes! All persons having business before the Honorable, the Supreme Court of the United States, are admonished to draw near and give their attention, for the Court is now sitting." (A formal call for silence and attention at the opening of a court session.)
- The town crier shouted "oyes" three times before reading the royal proclamation. (A command for listeners to be quiet and listen.)
Advanced Usage
- Historical and legal context: "oyes" is derived from the Anglo-Norman French word , meaning "hear ye" (the imperative plural of , "to hear"). It is almost exclusively used in formal legal settings, such as the opening of a court session, or in historical reenactments. It is not used in everyday conversation.
Variants and Related Words
- Oyez (interjection): a common alternative spelling of "oyes," with identical meaning and usage.
- "Oyez, oyez, oyez!" is the traditional cry in British and American courts. (The same call for silence and attention.)
Synonyms
- Hear ye: an archaic English phrase meaning "listen," used in similar formal announcements.
- Silence: a command for quiet, though less formal than "oyes."
Related Idioms
- Cry "oyez": to make a formal announcement or call for attention.
- The herald cried "oyez" before reading the king's decree. (To formally command attention before a proclamation.)