rec·og·ni·tion (rkg-nshn)
  n.

     1.The act of recognizing or condition of being recognized.
     2.An awareness that something perceived has been perceived before.
     3.An acceptance as true or valid, as of a claim: a recognition of their civil rights.
     4.Attention or favorable notice: She received recognition for her many achievements.
     5.Official acceptance of the national status of a new government by another nation.
     6.Biology. The ability of one molecule to attach itself to another molecule having a complementary
       shape, as in enzyme-substrate and antibody-antigen interactions.