Definition

1. Noun:
   • A lie detector; a medical instrument that records several physiological processes simultaneously: A "polygraph" is an electronic device that measures and records multiple involuntary physiological responses—such as pulse rate, blood pressure, respiration, and skin conductivity—while a person is asked a series of questions. The underlying theory is that deceptive answers will produce distinctive, measurable physiological reactions.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The suspect was asked to take a polygraph test.
  • The accuracy of the polygraph is a topic of debate among scientists and legal experts.
  • The investigator reviewed the charts produced by the polygraph.

Advanced Usage

• "to administer a polygraph": to conduct or give a polygraph test.
  • The agency has the authority to administer a polygraph to all new employees.
• "to pass/fail a polygraph": to have the results of a polygraph test interpreted as indicating truthfulness or deception.
  • He claimed his innocence after reportedly passing a polygraph.
• "polygraph examiner": a person trained to operate a polygraph and interpret its results.
  • The polygraph examiner prepared a series of control and relevant questions.

Variants and Related Words

• Polygraphy (n): The use or technique of using a polygraph.
• Polygrapher (n): Another term for a polygraph examiner.

Synonyms

• Lie detector: The common, non-technical term for a polygraph.

Related Phrases

• Polygraph test: The procedure of using a polygraph.
  • She agreed to submit to a polygraph test.

Noun

1. a medical instrument that records several physiological processes simultaneously (e.g., pulse rate and blood pressure and respiration and perspiration)