noun
polygraph
PO-leeg-raf
Polygraph (noun) means a device, popularly called a lie detector, that records changes in breathing, pulse, and skin response while someone answers questions. Example: “The suspect agreed to take a polygraph test to clear his name.”
noun
1
A device, popularly called a lie detector, that records changes in breathing, pulse, and skin response while someone answers questions.
"The suspect agreed to take a polygraph test to clear his name."
How to use polygraph
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA machine that measures physical signs like heart rate to try to tell if someone is lying.
Common pairings
polygraph test
pass a polygraph
fail a polygraph
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Word forms
- Plural
- polygraphs
- Third person singular
- polygraphs
- Past tense
- polygraphed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The suspect agreed to take a _____ test to clear his name.
Etymology
From poly- ("many") and -graph ("writing" or "recording"), originally referring to a device that recorded several measurements at once.
Frequently asked questions
What does “polygraph” mean?
The word “polygraph” means a device, popularly called a lie detector, that records changes in breathing, pulse, and skin response while someone answers questions. In plain terms, a machine that measures physical signs like heart rate to try to tell if someone is lying.
How do you pronounce “polygraph”?
“Polygraph” is pronounced PO-leeg-raf (/ˈpɒliɡɹæf/ in IPA).
How do you use “polygraph” in a sentence?
Here is “polygraph” used in a sentence: “The suspect agreed to take a polygraph test to clear his name.”
What part of speech is “polygraph”?
“Polygraph” is a noun.
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