\Re*cog"ni*zance\, n. [F. reconnaissance, OF.
recognoissance, fr. recognoissant, p. pr. of recognoistre to
recognize, F. reconna[^i]tre, fr. L. recognoscere; pref. re-
re- + cognoscere to know. See {Cognizance}, {Know}, and cf.
{Recognize}, {Reconnoissance}.] [Written also
{recognisance}.]
1. (Law)
   (a) An obligation of record entered into before some court
       of record or magistrate duly authorized, with
       condition to do some particular act, as to appear at
       the same or some other court, to keep the peace, or
       pay a debt. A recognizance differs from a bond, being
       witnessed by the record only, and not by the party's
       seal.
   (b) The verdict of a jury impaneled upon assize. --Cowell.
Note: Among lawyers the g in this and the related words
      (except recognize) is usually silent.
2. A token; a symbol; a pledge; a badge.
         That recognizance and pledge of love Which I first
         gave her.                             --Shak.
3. Acknowledgment of a person or thing; avowal; profession;
   recognition.