Final answer:
The dictionary entry that best supports the meaning of the word reconnaissance as used in the excerpt is: The act of reconnoitering; preliminary examination or survey.
Step-by-step explanation:
The dictionary entry that best supports the meaning of the word reconnaissance as used in the excerpt is:
- The act of reconnoitering; preliminary examination or survey.
In the given excerpt, the word reconnaissance is used in the context of someone needing knowledge about another person's knowledge before they can gain an advantage. The act of reconnoitering refers to conducting a preliminary examination or survey, which aligns with the idea of gaining knowledge before taking action. Therefore, this dictionary definition best supports the meaning of reconnaissance in the context of the excerpt.