biometrics

[ bahy-uh-me-triks ]

noun

, (used with a singular verb)

1. Biology, Statistics. biostatistics.
2. biometry ( def 1 ).
3. the process by which a person's unique physical and other traits are detected and recorded by an electronic device or system as a means of confirming identity:

   Scanning of the human iris is a reliable form of biometrics.

biometrics

1. The measuring and analysis of such physical attributes as facial features and voice or retinal scans. This technology can be used to define an individual's unique identity, often for security purposes.

Notes

Software is available that can match faces of individuals videotaped on the street to the picture of a suspected criminal or terrorist in a database . The use of biometrics is likely to increase in the future as security concerns become more of a priority for both governments and corporations following the September 11 attacks (2001).

Other Words From

• bio·metric bio·metri·cal adjective
• bio·metri·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of biometrics¹

First recorded in 1900–05; biometr(y) + -ics

Example Sentences

The idea that biometrics recognition provides convenience for consumers is an “efficiency delusion,” argues Cahn of STOP.

From MIT Technology Review

A new biometrics privacy ordinance has taken effect across New York City, putting new limits on what businesses can do with the biometric data they collect on their customers.

From TechCrunch

Within quite recent years, however, a special school Biometrics.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Galton is the pioneer of this study, which Professor Karl Pearson has named biometrics.

From Project Gutenberg

In the Appendix reference is made to various publications, mostly inexpensive, which deal with biometrics.

From Project Gutenberg