recognize meaning and definition

RECOGNIZE verb

Definition of recognize (verb)

1. accept (someone) to be what is claimed or accept his power and authority
   • "The Crown Prince was acknowledged as the true heir to the throne"; "We do not recognize your gods"
   • synonyms: acknowledge, know, recognise
2. be fully aware or cognizant of
   • synonyms: agnise, agnize, realise, realize, recognise
3. detect with the senses
   • "The fleeing convicts were picked out of the darkness by the watchful prison guards"; "I can't make out the faces in this photograph"
   • synonyms: discern, distinguish, make out, pick out, recognise, spot, tell apart
4. perceive to be the same
   • synonyms: recognise
5. grant credentials to
   • "The Regents officially recognized the new educational institution"; "recognize an academic degree"
   • synonyms: accredit, recognise
6. express greetings upon meeting someone
   • synonyms: greet, recognise
7. express obligation, thanks, or gratitude for
   • "We must acknowledge the kindness she showed towards us"
   • synonyms: acknowledge, recognise
8. exhibit recognition for (an antigen or a substrate)
9. show approval or appreciation of
   • "My work is not recognized by anybody!"; "The best student was recognized by the Dean"
   • synonyms: recognise