polygraphs

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

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 polygraphs At agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI, polygraphs reportedly have been used frequently – and more punitively – to identify internal dissenters. — Brian O'Neill, The Conversation, 10 Sep. 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 Carla’s boyfriend and family members were ruled out after passing polygraphs, according to Plautz. — Dalia Faheid, CNN Money, 21 June 2026 The stories of a half-dozen staffers who’d been subjected to hours-long polygraphs spread inside the agency. — Jonathan Blitzer, New Yorker, 17 Feb. 2026 The bureau also administers polygraphs to agents working on highly classified investigations and to agents accused of misconduct. — New York Times, 22 Jan. 2026 The table starts wondering how polygraphs work. — Olivia Crandall, Vulture, 13 Nov. 2025 The court filings show at least four polygraph examinations were conducted by investigators and that initial polygraphs for the children's mother, Malehya Brooks-Murray, and stepfather, Daniel Martell, had indicated truthful answers, according to a Friday report from CTV News. — Hollie Silverman, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for polygraphs
lie detectors
Noun
  • 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
  • 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Polygraphs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/polygraphs. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!