biometric

American  

[bahy-uh-me-trik] / ˌbaɪ əˈmɛ trɪk /

adjective

1. pertaining to biometry.

2. pertaining to, noting, or using a person's unique physical and other traits for the purposes of identification and security.

   a biometric system;

   biometric readers;

   a biometric passport.

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biometric British  

/ ˌbaɪəʊˈmɛtrɪk /

adjective

1. 1. relating to the analysis of biological data using mathematical and statistical methods

   2. relating to digital scanning of the physiological or behavioural characteristics of individuals as a means of identification

      biometric fingerprinting

2. relating to the statistical calculation of the probable duration of human life

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Etymology

Origin of biometric

First recorded in 1875–80; bio- ( def. ) + metric ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Biometric identification and traceable digital payments would help ensure the money went to the right people.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 27, 2026

Biometric fingerprinting kits are set to be given to those on the frontline, which the government says will enable immigration enforcement officers to cross-check detained individuals against police databases "on the spot".

From BBC • Dec. 15, 2024

Biometric technology will be seen everywhere from bag drops at the check-in counters to domestic security screening.

From New York Times • Jan. 18, 2024

The state’s Biometric Privacy Act also imposes requirements such as imposing written informed consent before conducting facial recognition technology.

From Slate • Mar. 14, 2023

Galton himself has established a Eugenics Laboratory under the direction of Professor Pearson in the Biometric Laboratory of the University of London and has endowed a Research Fellowship and Research Scholarships.

From The Social Direction of Evolution An Outline of the Science of Eugenics by Kellicott, William E.