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.
An intriguing nose with smoldering earth and graphite that has crunchy blackberry and red currant fruit on the palate with the enticing aroma of a lit cigar ruminating in one’s head for several seconds after the finish. Cathrine Todd, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024 While memory foam is known to get toasty, it’s often infused with cooling materials, like gel or graphite, which can help pull heat away from your body. Kathleen Felton, SELF, 15 Oct. 2024 Fast lithium ion transfer is ensured by a fast ion conductor coating on the cathode, fast-charging graphite and novel nano-coating technologies for the anode, multi-gradient layered electrode design, and ultra-high conductivity electrolyte formulation. New Atlas, 24 Oct. 2024 Used by Graf in 1988 to win the Golden Slam, the injection molding pushed compression molding of graphite by the wayside for the time being. Tim Newcomb, Forbes, 3 Oct. 2024 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 27 Nov. 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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