cognizant

adj

Etymology: A new formation from cognizance + -ant; first attested in the 19th century. Compare Old French conoissant (present participle of conoistre; modern French connaissant), from Latin cognōscentem (accusative singular present participle of cōgnōscō).

1. Aware; fully informed; having understanding of a fact.

   “The defendant is cognizant that this is a serious charge.”

   “And now the memory has so far regained its dominion, that, in some measure, I am cognizant of my state.”

2. Sapient; self-aware.

   “It is important to note that zombies are not cognizant life forms. As such, they cannot be deterred or reasoned with in any way. However, there are zombie-inducing forces that can be deterred form^([sic]) further action.”