reconnoitre, v. t. [F. reconnoitre, a former spelling of reconnaître. See Recognize.].
To examine with the eye to make a preliminary examination or survey of; esp., to survey with a view to military or engineering operations. [1913 Webster]
reconnoitre, v. & n. (US reconnoiter)
--v.
1 tr. make a reconnaissance of (an area, enemy position, etc.).
2 intr. make a reconnaissance.
--n. a reconnaissance.
Etymology
obs. F reconno{icirc}tre f. L recognoscere RECOGNIZE