graphite

noun

graph·​ite ˈgra-ˌfīt How to pronounce graphite (audio)
1
: a soft black lustrous form of carbon that conducts electricity and is used in lead pencils and electrolytic anodes, as a lubricant, and as a moderator in nuclear reactors
2
: a composite material in which carbon fibers are the reinforcing material
graphitic adjective

Examples of graphite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The resulting wine is exceptionally balanced with aromas of cassis, graphite, cardamom, and tart cherry. Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 29 Feb. 2024 Colors include white, graphite, striped flamingo, and more. Jessica MacDonald, Travel + Leisure, 15 Dec. 2023 The region has a particular abundance of the minerals needed to make batteries: it is estimated to hold 60 percent of the world’s lithium reserves, 23 percent of the world’s graphite, and over 15 percent of its manganese and nickel. Shannon K. O’Neil, Foreign Affairs, 20 Feb. 2024 The bundle is available in multiple colors, including graphite and steel oxford stripe, window pane, graphite, cream, blue tide, willow, beach grass, and white. Andrea Wurzburger, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Jan. 2024 Shop them in 30-, 32-, and 34-inch inseam options, in sizes XS–XXL, and 23 colors including graphite and martini olive. Monica Bell, Peoplemag, 29 Jan. 2024 For those who want a bit more novelty, PVD (for physical vapor deposition) finishes offer a greater range of color — a bonding process infuses color into the chrome plating to offer a variety of finishes, including graphite and polished brass. Marni Jameson, The Mercury News, 11 Jan. 2024 Critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt and graphite are essential for the manufacturing of batteries for electric vehicles, and the Chinese government currently controls more than 90% of the world’s supply. Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 14 Nov. 2023 Material Modern fishing rods are constructed with fiberglass or graphite. Pete M. Anderson, Field & Stream, 28 Sep. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'graphite.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

German Graphit, from Greek graphein to write

First Known Use

1796, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of graphite was in 1796

Dictionary Entries Near graphite

Cite this Entry

“Graphite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/graphite. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

graphite

noun
graph·​ite ˈgraf-ˌīt How to pronounce graphite (audio)
: a soft shiny black carbon that is used in making lead pencils and as a dry lubricant

Medical Definition

graphite

noun
graph·​ite ˈgraf-ˌīt How to pronounce graphite (audio)
: carbon of a soft black lustrous form that conducts electricity and is used in lead pencils and electrolytic anodes, as a lubricant, and as a moderator in nuclear reactors

called also plumbago

graphitic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on graphite

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