The verb has 8 meanings:
Meaning #1:
show approval or appreciation of
Synonym: recognize
Meaning #2:
grant credentials to
Synonyms: accredit, recognize
Meaning #3:
detect with the senses
Synonyms: recognize, distinguish, discern, pick out, make out, tell apart
Meaning #4:
express greetings upon meeting someone
Synonyms: greet, recognize
Meaning #5:
express obligation, thanks, or gratitude for
Synonyms: acknowledge, recognize
Meaning #6:
be fully aware or cognizant of
Synonyms: recognize, realize, realise, agnize, agnise
Meaning #7:
perceive to be the same
Synonym: recognize
Meaning #8:
accept (smeone) to be what is claimed or accept his power and authority
Synonyms: acknowledge, recognize, know
