lie detector

noun

Definition of lie detectornext
as in polygraph
an instrument for detecting physical signs of the tension that goes with lying hooked the suspect up to a lie detector before interrogating him about the robbery

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of lie detector The building is outfitted with advanced technology, including three interview rooms with lie detectors that only use retina movement to base its findings. — Rachel Royster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 June 2026 These plays all scratch the same exact itch of, say, watching Bachelorette hunks get hooked up to a lie detector or watching Mike White whine about the lack of fine cuisine on Survivor. — Literary Hub, 2 June 2026 McGrail agrees to take a lie detector test. — Peter Van Sant, CBS News, 14 May 2026 Basically, Tsimhoni says, the testing acts as a lie detector. — Kristin Shaw, Popular Science, 30 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lie detector
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lie detector
polygraph
Noun
  • The statement claims that Sylvia failed three polygraph tests about leaking classified information.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 30 Oct. 2026
  • Officials say that the allegations involve the Iran war and Russia’s war in Ukraine, and that Sylvia failed three polygraph tests; the matter has been referred to the Justice Department.
    — Konstantin Toropin, Los Angeles Times, 29 Oct. 2026
Definition of polygraph

Browse Nearby Words

lied
lie detector
lie detectors
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Cite this Entry

“Lie detector.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lie%20detector. Accessed 8 Nov. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on lie detector

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lie detector

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