polygraph

American  

[pol-i-graf, -grahf] / ˈpɒl ɪˌgræf, -ˌgrɑf /

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.

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verb (used with object)

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

polygraph British  

/ -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

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Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of polygraph

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

Example Sentences

Kruger had noted a link between failed polygraph tests on its rangers and a surge in poaching, with follow-up investigations resulting in the dismissal of seven staff, it said.

From Barron's

Castro was accused of being an agent of the CIA or of the US Drug Enforcement Agency and subjected to polygraph tests, during which the same set of questions was put to him for hours.

From Barron's

The Thirtysomething actor's defence team submitted more than 70 letters from people vouching for his character and said that he underwent and passed a polygraph test pertaining to the allegations against him.

From BBC

He was hired in February 2025 after careful examination of his employment eligibility and a vetting process that included a criminal-background check and a polygraph, according to Joyce.

From The Wall Street Journal

The West Wing actor's defence team submitted more than 70 letters from people vouching for his character and said that he underwent and passed a polygraph test pertaining to the allegations against him.

From BBC