graphite

noun

graph·​ite ˈgra-ˌfīt 

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

gra-ˈfi-tik 

adjective

Examples of graphite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For the June 2023 Billboard Español cover story, the group pulled up in three luxury cars, including a graphite off-roader Lamborghini Urus and a white Chevrolet Corvette. —Isabela Raygoza, Billboard, 25 Mar. 2025

Ukraine is rich in titanium, graphite, manganese and other rare earth metals used to produce electric vehicle batteries and other tech devices. —Frank A. Blazich Jr., The Conversation, 24 Mar. 2025

The materials being used — especially graphite — has increased raw materials cost. —Bestreviews, The Mercury News, 18 Mar. 2025

The quasi-solid-state design also allows for a lithium-metal anode that replaces graphite and carries more energy. —IEEE Spectrum, 12 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

German Graphit, from Greek graphein to write

First Known Use

1796, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for graphite

• affright
• airtight
• albite
• alight
• alright
• aplite
• aright
• bainite
• birthright
• bobwhite
• bornite
• bullfight

Kids Definition

graphite

noun

graph·​ite ˈgraf-ˌīt 

: 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 

: 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

gra-ˈfit-ik 

adjective