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

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

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

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.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Los Angeles Times

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.

From Los Angeles Times

At one point, he had even agreed to take a polygraph test.

From Los Angeles Times

Within days, the order came down: no more polygraphs.

From Salon