polygraph
UK[ˈpɒl.i.ɡrɑːf]US[ˈpɑː.li.ɡræf]
n
A machine that records changes in a person's bodily functions (such as heart rate and sweating) and is used to try to determine if they are telling the truth.
n
An article or book written by several different authors.
Morpheme Breakdown
poly
graph
poly
many
graph
writing
Etymology
The word 'polygraph' is a modern compound formed from two ancient Greek elements. The prefix 'poly-' carries the enduring sense of "many" or "much," while the root '-graph' derives from the verb graphein, "to write." Its literal meaning, "many writings," first described a voluminous literary work or a collection by multiple authors. In the 20th century, this logic was technologically extended. The device was named a polygraph because it produces "many writings" or simultaneous graphical records of several physiological responses on a single chart, metaphorically "writing" the body's signals to assess truthfulness.
Analysis
Structure: poly (many) + graph (writing)
- poly: From Greek poly-, meaning "much, many". A combining form used in English to indicate multiplicity.
- graph: From Greek graphē, meaning "writing, a drawing, a record". A combining form denoting something written or recorded.
Examples
The suspect was asked to take a polygraph test during the investigation.
The results of a polygraph are not always admissible as evidence in court.
His latest publication is a polygraph on European history, featuring chapters from various scholars.