rə̇ˈkägnəzən(t)s, rēˈ- sometimes -känə- noun
( -s )
Etymology: alteration (influenced by recognize ) of Middle English reconissaunce, from Middle French reconoissance, reconissance recognition, from reconois- (stem of reconoistre to recognize) + -ance
1.
a.
(1) : an obligation of record entered into before a court of record or before a magistrate duly authorized that makes the performance of some act (as appearing in court, keeping the peace, paying a debt) the condition of nonforfeiture and that is witnessed by the record only — compare bond 5a(1)
(2) : the sum liable to forfeiture upon such an obligation
b. : a simple personal obligation or undertaking entered into before a magistrate and having no money penalty attached
on his own recognizance
2. archaic : recognition
3. archaic : token , pledge