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

China Program senior director at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies (FDD), Craig Singleton, told Newsweek that Beijing may tighten controls further on strategic minerals like gallium and graphite, but is cautious about shocking global markets. —John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Apr. 2025

The graphite construction gives a junior player stability and a solid feel, while Babolat’s Woofer system assists the string movement for ultimate performance. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 2 Apr. 2025

Club shafts Golfers choose between shafts made of stainless steel or shafts made of graphite. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 17 Mar. 2025

Related Articles Beckham wore one of her own pieces, an asymmetric midi dress with a draped detailing in a shade of graphite. —Julia Teti, WWD, 11 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