1. a written order or writ directing a person to do something or show cause why they should not
Usage: legal

Examples

• The court issued a praecipe requiring the defendant to appear.
• The attorney filed a praecipe to compel discovery.
• A praecipe was served demanding payment of the debt.
• The judge signed the praecipe directing the sheriff to seize the property.
• The praecipe commanded the witness to testify under oath.