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
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.
China controls 95% of the global supply of graphite. Jackie Charniga, USA TODAY, 16 Jan. 2025 In this sector, Beijing has a near monopoly on graphite, a mineral needed to make electric vehicle batteries. Elizabeth Economy, Foreign Affairs, 14 Jan. 2025 This 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon has the elegance and finesse of a fine Cab from Bordeaux with aromas of black cherry, boysenberry, and powdered cocoa and flavors of cassis, graphite, and cigar box. Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 9 Jan. 2025 The country has both mines and manufacturing facilities that can produce graphite artificially, currently an expensive process. Alex Knapp, Forbes, 1 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for graphite 

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 30 Jan. 2025.

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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