Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Recognize \Rec"og*nize\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Recognized}; p.
   pr. & vb. n. {Recognizing}.] [From {Recognizance}; see
   {Cognition}, and cf. {Reconnoiter}.] [Written also
   {recognise}.]
   1. To know again; to perceive the identity of, with a person
      or thing previously known; to recover or recall knowledge
      of.

            Speak, vassal; recognize thy sovereign queen.
                                                  --Harte.

   2. To avow knowledge of; to allow that one knows; to consent
      to admit, hold, or the like; to admit with a formal
      acknowledgment; as, to recognize an obligation; to
      recognize a consul.

   3. To acknowledge acquaintance with, as by salutation,
      bowing, or the like.

   4. To show appreciation of; as, to recognize services by a
      testimonial.

   5. To review; to re["e]xamine. [Obs.] --South.

   6. To reconnoiter. [Obs.] --R. Monro.

   Syn: To acknowledge; avow; confess; own; allow; concede. See
        {Acknowledge}.

Source : WordNet®

recognized
     adj 1: generally approved or compelling recognition; "several
            accepted techniques for treating the condition"; "his
            recognized superiority in this kind of work" [syn: {accepted},
             {recognised}]
     2: provided with a secure reputation; "a recognized authority"
        [syn: {recognised}]