Definition

A legal agreement where a person promises to do something, often to appear in court, usually involving a sum of money as a guarantee.

Example

He was released on his own recognizance, promising to return for his court date.

Conversation

Did you hear about Tom's situation with the court?

Yeah, I heard he got released on recognizance instead of bail.

That's interesting; I wonder what that means for him moving forward.

It means he promised to show up in court, but he didn't have to pay anything upfront.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Recognizance → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "cognoscere" (meaning to know). The word refers to the act of acknowledging or knowing again, particularly in a legal context where a person acknowledges their obligation to appear in court.

Memory Tip

Think of 'knowing again' — 're-' means again, and 'cognoscere' means to know. This helps you remember that recognizance is about acknowledging a legal obligation.

Visually Confused Words