Meaning Of Cognizance

n.

Apprehension by the understanding; perception; observation.

n.

Recollection; recognition.

n.

Jurisdiction, or the power given by law to hear and decide controversies.

n.

The hearing a matter judicially.

n.

An acknowledgment of a fine of lands and tenements or confession of a thing done.

n.

A form of defense in the action of replevin, by which the defendant insists that the goods were lawfully taken, as a distress, by defendant, acting as servant for another.

n.

The distinguishing mark worn by an armed knight, usually upon the helmet, and by his retainers and followers: Hence, in general, a badge worn by a retainer or dependent, to indicate the person or party to which he belonged; a token by which a thing may be known.