oyez

Definition

Hear ye. Attend. (Called by public criers or in court usually three times to secure silence and/or attentiveness).

Etymology

From Middle English oyes, from Old French oyez, the imperative plural of oir (“hear; listen”), from Latin audīre. Commonly folk-etymologized as (and pronounced homophonously to) O + yes in the early modern period.

Example Sentences

• "“Oyez! Oyez! Oyez! The Banquet is now ready!” called the two Beef Eaters, and in no time at all Palmer Cox’s resourceful Brownies had found a seat for every guest."