rec·og·nize / ˈrekigˌnīz; ˈrekə(g)ˌnīz/ • v. [tr.] 1. identify (someone or something) from having encountered them before; know again: I recognized her when her wig fell off Julia hardly recognized Jill when they met. ∎  identify from knowledge of appearance or character: Pat is very good at recognizing wildflowers. ∎  (of a computer or other machine) automatically identify and respond correctly to (a sound, printed character, etc.).2. acknowledge the existence, validity, or legality of: the defense is recognized in Mexican law he was recognized as an international authority | it is important to recognize that a variety of indirect forms of discrimination operate. ∎  officially regard (a qualification) as valid or proper: these qualifications are recognized by the Department of Education | [as adj.] (recognized) courses that lead to recognized qualifications. ∎  grant diplomatic recognition to (a country or government): they were refusing to recognize the puppet regime. ∎  show official appreciation of; reward formally: his work was recognized by an honorary degree from Georgetown University. ∎  (of a person presiding at a meeting or debate) call on (someone) to speak.DERIVATIVES: rec·og·niz·er n.

recognize (accept) a formal language. See automaton, finite-state automaton.