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
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.
In December 2012, Sheila and Rachel agreed to take a lie detector test, even though investigators knew results were not admissible in court. Alex Gurley, People.com, 6 July 2025 After learning about Charlie’s human lie detector power, Alex decides to prod Brick about Rodney’s death in front of her, and Charlie can’t entirely ignore how much Brick is lying either. Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 26 June 2025 His security locked her in an office and administered a lie detector test. Tracy Wright, FOXNews.com, 28 May 2025 In asking for the Rule 29 motion, defense attorney Alexandra Shapiro argued there’s insufficient evidence of kidnapping and racketeering in regards to Capricorn Clark’s claim she was forced to take a lie detector test for days at a building in Manhattan after some of Combs’ jewelry went missing. Nbc News, NBC news, 24 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for lie detector

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lie detector was in 1909

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Cite this Entry

“Lie detector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lie%20detector. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

lie detector

noun
: an instrument for detecting bodily changes (as an increase in heart rate) that are considered to go along with lying

Medical Definition

lie detector

noun
: a polygraph for detecting physiological evidence (as change in heart rate) of the tension that accompanies lying

Legal Definition

lie detector

noun
lie de·​tec·​tor
: an instrument for detecting physiological evidence of the tension that accompanies lying compare polygraph

More from Merriam-Webster on lie detector

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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