recognizance

Meaning

Noun

• a form of bail; a promise made by the accused to the court that they will attend all required judicial proceedings and will not engage in further illegal activity or other prohibited conduct as set by the court.
• A token; a symbol; a pledge.
• Acknowledgment of a person or thing; avowal; profession; recognition.

Origin

• From Middle English reconisaunce, from Old French reconissance. reconnaissance.