biometrics

American  

[bahy-uh-me-triks] / ˌbaɪ əˈmɛ trɪks /

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. Biology, Statistics. biostatistics.

2. biometry.

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.

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biometrics Cultural  

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.

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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 Word Forms

• biometric adjective
• biometrical adjective
• biometrically adverb

Etymology

Origin of biometrics

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

Example Sentences

The reliance on biometrics and cryptocurrency has generated negative publicity and regulatory pushback, however, including headline-making bans in some countries over concerns about data security.

From The Wall Street Journal

Despite Smirnoff’s talk of ending all crime, the statement Ring shared said that Search Party “does not process human biometrics or track people.”

From Salon

Using biometrics instead of remembering complex passwords is another great tool.

From The Wall Street Journal

But the founders of IriHealth -- a spin-off of biometrics specialist IriTech -- are convinced that their device can be effective in detecting anomalies in the colon, and potentially the lungs or the liver.

From Barron's

The government proposed to create a regulator overseeing police use of biometrics and facial recognition.

From BBC