biometric

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   using measurable physical or behavioral characteristics to identify a person

   The passport stores biometric data such as a facial image and fingerprints.

2. 2
   adj

   relating to the statistical measurement and analysis of biological characteristics

   The researchers applied a biometric model to compare variation across the population.

3. 3
   noun

   a measurable biological or behavioral characteristic used for identification or analysis

   Voice pattern can serve as a biometric when other forms of identification are unavailable.

From bio- + metric, or from biometry + -ic; the elements ultimately derive from Greek bios, life, and metron, measure. The older scientific sense concerns measurement of living things, while the modern security sense concerns measurements used to recognize individuals.

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