- Reconnaissance
- Reconnaissance Re*con"nais*sance, Reconnoissance
Re*con"nois*sance(r?-k?n"n?s-s?ns), n. [F. See
{Recognizance}.]
The act of reconnoitering; preliminary examination or survey.
Specifically:
(a) (Geol.) An examination or survey of a region in reference
to its general geological character.
(b) (Engin.) An examination of a region as to its general
natural features, preparatory to a more particular survey
for the purposes of triangulation, or of determining the
location of a public work.
(c) (Mil.) An examination of a territory, or of an enemy's
position, for the purpose of obtaining information
necessary for directing military operations; a
preparatory expedition.
[1913 Webster]
{Reconnoissance in force} (Mil.), a demonstration or attack by a large force of troops for the purpose of discovering the position and strength of an enemy. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.