释义 |
re·cog·ni·zance \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 |