Definition of polygraphnext
as in lie detector
an instrument for detecting physical signs of the tension that goes with lying intelligence agents were trained to fool the polygraph

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Recent Examples of polygraph She was also asked to submit to a polygraph, the results of which were inconclusive, according to the suit. — Amber Gaudet updated August 20, Charlotte Observer, 20 Aug. 2026 Utilizing polygraphs, cardiographs, and encephalographs, scientists have proven a complex plant intelligence that determines levels of stress and emotions, as well as ESP (extrasensory perception) and fear of dying. — Literary Hub, 20 Aug. 2026 Extensive efforts made in the many months since Lilly and Jack went missing have included a grid search of the woods surrounding their home, plus the use of cadaver dogs and polygraph examinations, according to the CBC. — Paloma Chavez, PEOPLE, 13 Aug. 2026 Carla’s boyfriend and family members were ruled out after passing polygraphs, according to Plautz. — Dalia Faheid, CNN Money, 21 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for polygraph
Recent Examples of Synonyms for polygraph
lie detector
Noun
  • The more familiar and unofficial term – lie detector tests – likely fuels that perception.
    — Brian O'Neill, The Conversation, 10 Sep. 2026
  • Later, after clearing the Silo 1 control room, Victor both chastises Camille for her failures and grudgingly praises her for lying so convincingly that his biometric lie detectors couldn’t detect it.
    — Noel Murray, Vulture, 4 Sep. 2026

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“Polygraph.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/polygraph. Accessed 5 Oct. 2026.

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