1 [reporting verb] accept or admit the existence or truth of: [with object]:the plight of the refugees was acknowledged by the authorities [with clause]:the government acknowledged that the tax was unfair [with direct speech]:‘That’s true,’ she acknowledged
2 [with object] recognize the importance or quality of:the art world has begun to acknowledge his geniusthe hotel is widely acknowledged as one of Cornwall’s finest
express gratitude for or appreciation of:he received a letter acknowledging his services
accept the validity or legitimacy of:Henry acknowledged Richard as his heir
3 [with object] show that one has noticed or recognized (someone) by making a gesture or greeting:she refused to acknowledge my presence
confirm (receipt of something):I should be grateful if you would acknowledge receipt of this letter
