adjective / noun

biometric

by-oh-MET-rik/ˌbaɪəʊˈmetrɪk/

A measurable biological trait used for identification or analysis.

The scanner uses a fingerprint as a biometric to confirm identity.

Close view of an adult pressing a fingertip onto a small fingerprint scanner, screen shows only the matching whorl fingerprint shape and a small green tick; focus identification trait, not generic phone use.

Etymology

bioEnglishlife

+metrEnglishmeasurement

+icEnglishrelating to

Life-measurement once meant calculating life expectancy and later applying mathematics to biology. For identification, the measured features are distinctive bodily or behavioral traits.

In context

EuroPython Conference36:00

for example, biometric data so that you can verify your identity on your phone

Keynote: Dodging AI Dystopia: you can't save the world alone - presented by Dr. Nakeema Stefflbauer

More examples

Facial patterns provide another biometric for identifying a person.
The app checks biometric data instead of asking for a password.
Researchers compare biometric measurements to study patterns in human growth.

Forms

biometric · biometrics

biometry noun — The measurement and statistical analysis of organisms.

Similar words

identifier: An identifier may be assigned rather than biologically measured.
biological marker: A biological marker often indicates health rather than personal identity.