Cōg'ni-zance, n.
(kōg'nĭ-zans, or kŏn'ĭ-zans) (Syn-op., §130), n. [O. Fr. cognizance, N. Fr. connaissance, Pr. connoissença, L. Lat. cognoscentia.]
Sense 1. Knowledge or notice; perception; observation; recognition. “Within the cognizance and under the control of their divine Governor.” Hurd.
Sense 2. Judicial knowledge or jurisdiction; the hearing a matter judicially; the right to take notice of and determine a cause.
The moral crime is completed; there are only circumstances wanting to work it up for the cognizance of the law. Addison.
Sense 3. (Law.) (a.) An acknowledgment or confession, as an acknowledgment of a fine. (b.) The acknowledgment of the defendant, in replevin, that he took the goods, with the allegation that he did it legally, as the bailiff of another person who had a right to distrain. Blackstone.
Sense 4. A badge worn by a retainer or dependent, to indicate the person or party to which he belonged. “Wearing the liveries and cognizance of their master.” Prescott.