Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
polygraph
noun
/ˈpɒl.i.ɡræf/
Definition
A polygraph is a device that measures and records physiological responses such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration rate, often used to detect lies.
Examples
- The detective used a polygraph to determine whether the suspect was telling the truth.
- During the interview, the applicants were asked to complete a polygraph test as part of the security clearance process.
- Although a polygraph can indicate stress levels, its reliability as a lie detector is often disputed.
Meaning
The term ‘polygraph’ comes from the Greek words ‘poly’, meaning many, and ‘graph’, meaning to write. Thus, it refers to a tool that writes many different physiological signals simultaneously.
Synonyms
- lie detector
- truth verifier
- deception detector
