polygraph

[pol-i-graf, -grahf]

noun

1. an instrument for receiving and recording simultaneously tracings of variations in certain body activities.

2. a test using such an instrument to determine if a person is telling the truth.

3. lie detector.

4. an apparatus for producing copies of a drawing or writing.

5. a prolific or versatile author.

verb (used with object)

1. to test (a person) with a polygraph.

polygraph

/ -ˌɡræf, ˌpɒlɪˈɡræfɪk, ˈpɒlɪˌɡrɑːf /

noun

1. an instrument for the simultaneous electrical or mechanical recording of several involuntary physiological activities, including blood pressure, skin resistivity, pulse rate, respiration, and sweating, used esp as a would-be lie detector

2. a device for producing copies of written, printed, or drawn matter

Other Word Forms

• polygraphically adverb
• polygraphic adjective
• polygraphist noun
• polygrapher noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of polygraph¹

1795–1805 polygraph for def. 1; 1920–25 polygraph for def. 3; < Greek polýgraphos writing much. See poly-, -graph

Word History and Origins

Origin of polygraph¹

C18: from Greek polugraphos writing copiously

Example Sentences

He routinely demands that top employees take polygraphs if he suspects they are leaking to the press.

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That same month, Hegseth’s team began subjecting officials to random polygraph tests, a practice that was temporarily halted after the White House intervened, according to the Washington Post.

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After authorities said that the couple had stopped cooperating with the investigation, Hughes said that was not the case and instead, the child’s mother had just refused to take a polygraph test.

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An attorney who spoke on behalf of the parents said she was simply emotional and declined to take a polygraph.

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Earlier this week, an attorney for the boy’s father, Jake Haro, insisted the family is still cooperating, and Rebecca Haro only refused to take a polygraph when it was requested by law enforcement.

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