Aware (8)
'aware' is the definition.
(sentient means conscious or aware)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for sentient that I've seen before include "Able to perceive/feel" , "Capable of feeling things as in tenets" , "Endowed with feeling and consciousness" , "Having feelings" , "Conscious - aware" .)
'aware' is the definition.
(associated in meaning)
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for conscious that I've seen before include "Having awareness, knowing" , "Having awareness of surroundings" , "Aware, of one's surroundings" , "Aware of surroundings, sensations and thoughts" , "Deliberate, intentional" .)
(Other definitions for cognisant that I've seen before include "Having knowledge or understanding" , "Aware of" , "Knowledgeable" .)