'cognizant' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'cognoscere,' where 'co-' meant 'together' and 'gnoscere' meant 'to know.'

'cognoscere' transformed into the Old French word 'conoistre,' and eventually became the modern English word 'cognizant' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to know or recognize,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'being aware of something.'