lie detector
noun
: a polygraph for detecting physiological evidence (such as change in heart rate) of the tension that accompanies lying
Examples of lie detector in a Sentence
The murder suspect failed a lie detector test.
hooked the suspect up to a lie detector before interrogating him about the robbery
Recent Examples on the Web
While Doc Odd measures her pulse, Angela Bassett uses it like a lie detector and subjects her to questioning.
—
Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 2 Apr. 2025
Popularly known as lie detector tests, polygraphs monitor bodily responses such as blood pressure, changes in a person’s breathing, and sweating on the palms.
—Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 29 Apr. 2025
There were travel restrictions to prevent leaks, and even discussions about subjecting employees to lie detector tests.
—Sheon Han, Wired News, 27 Mar. 2025
In late March, Hegseth's chief of staff, Joe Kasper, issued a memo warning that those suspected of disclosing sensitive information could be subject to lie detector tests.
—Tom Vanden Brook, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lie detector
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Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 2 Apr. 2025
Popularly known as lie detector tests, polygraphs monitor bodily responses such as blood pressure, changes in a person’s breathing, and sweating on the palms.
—Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 29 Apr. 2025
There were travel restrictions to prevent leaks, and even discussions about subjecting employees to lie detector tests.
—Sheon Han, Wired News, 27 Mar. 2025
In late March, Hegseth's chief of staff, Joe Kasper, issued a memo warning that those suspected of disclosing sensitive information could be subject to lie detector tests.
—Tom Vanden Brook, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lie detector
Cite this Entry
“Lie detector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lie%20detector. Accessed 18 May. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
lie detector
noun
: a polygraph for detecting physiological evidence (as change in heart rate) of the tension that accompanies lying
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