1. past tense and past participle of recognise (British spelling): to identify someone or something from having encountered them before
Usage: British spelling
2. past tense and past participle of recognise: to acknowledge the existence, validity, or legality of something
Usage: British spelling
3. past tense and past participle of recognise: to show appreciation for someone’s achievements or service
Usage: British spelling

Examples

• She recognised her old teacher at the grocery store.
• The government recognised the new nation’s independence.
• His contributions to science were recognised with a prestigious award.
• I barely recognised him after his dramatic weight loss.
• The university recognised her outstanding academic achievements.
• The treaty recognised the disputed territory as neutral ground.