acknowledgment

Etymology

acknowledge + -ment

noun

1. The act of acknowledging
   .
2. The act of recognizing in a particular character or relationship; recognition of existence, authority, truth, or genuineness.
3. A reward or other expression or token of gratitude.
4. An expression of gratitude for a benefit or an obligation.
   the acknowledgment of a favor
5. A message from the addressee informing the originator that the originator's communication has been received and understood.
   the acknowledgment of a wedding invitation
6. (telecommunications, computing, networking) A response (ACK) sent by a receiver to indicate successful receipt of a transmission (See Wikipedia article on transmission).
7. A recognition as genuine or valid; an avowing or admission in legal form.
   acknowledgment of a deed
   This is conveniently done by means of a written instrument, called a bill of exchange, which is, in fact, a transferable order by a creditor upon his debtor, and when accepted by the debtor, that is, authenticated by his signature, becomes an acknowledgment of debt. 1871, John Stuart Mill, Principles of Political Economy, p. 41
8. (law) The act of a person admitting a child as their own.
9. (law) A formal statement or document recognizing the fulfillment or execution of a legal requirement or procedure.