Re-cŏn'nais-sänce or Re-cŏn'nois-sänce, n.

n. [Fr.] The act of reconnoitering; preliminary examination or survey; as, specifically, (a.) (Geol.) An examination or survey of a region in reference to its general geological character. (b.) (Engin.) An examination of a region as to its general natural features, preparatory to a more particular survey for the purposes of triangulation, or of determining the location of a public work. (c.) (Mil.) An examination of a territory, or of an enemy's position, for the purpose of directing military operations; a preparatory or preliminary expedition.

Reconnaissance in force (Mil.), a demonstration or attack for the purpose of discovering the position and strength of an enemy.