Word Origin & History
habeas corpus1465, from L., lit. "(you should) have the person," in phrase habeas corpus ad subjiciendum "produce or have the person to be subjected to (examination)," opening words of writs in 14c. Anglo-Fr. documents to require a person to be brought before a court or judge, especially to determine if that person
is being legally detained. From habeas, second pers. sing. pres. subjunctive of habere "to have, to hold" (see
habit) + corpus "person," lit. "body" (see
corporeal).