'acknow' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'aknowen,' where 'a-' meant 'to' and 'knowen' meant 'to know.'

'aknowen' transformed into the modern English word 'acknow' and eventually became 'acknowing' as an adjective form.

Initially, it meant 'to know or recognize,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having knowledge or awareness.'