Reconnaissance (noun)

1. The act of gathering information about an area, especially by military forces, in order to gain knowledge of the enemy's strength, position, and plans.
2. A preliminary survey or investigation of an area or situation, often in preparation for a more detailed examination or action.

Origin:

From the french reconnaissance (acknowledgment, recognition), from re- (again) + connaître (to know), from latin cognoscere (to get to know, learn about).

Examples:

1. The reconnaissance mission was sent to gather information about the enemy's position.
2. Reconnaissance aircraft flew over the area to take pictures and collect data.
3. The company sent a team to conduct a reconnaissance of the potential site for the new factory.
4. The police made a reconnaissance of the area before the event to ensure safety.
5. The reconnaissance team was able to gather valuable information about the terrain.