lie detector

detector /de·tec·tor/ (de-tek´ter) an instrument or apparatus for revealing the presence of something.

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lie detector  polygraph.

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lie detector

n.

A polygraph used to detect possible deception during an interrogation.

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lie detector

Etymology: AS, leogan, untruth; L, detegere, to uncover

an electronic device or instrument used to detect lying or anxiety in regard to specific questions. A commonly used lie detector is the polygraph recorder that senses and records pulse, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and perspiration. Some experts hold that certain patterns indicate the presence of anxiety, guilt, or fear-emotions that are likely to occur when the subject is lying.

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lie detector

Psychology A device that detects chest and abdominal movement during respiration, heart rate, BP, and galvanic skin conductance due to sweating. See Polygraph test.