anthracite

noun

an·​thra·​cite ˈan(t)-thrə-ˌsīt 

: a hard natural coal of high luster differing from bituminous coal in containing little volatile matter and in burning very cleanly

called also hard coal

anthracitic

ˌan(t)-thrə-ˈsi-tik 

adjective

Examples of anthracite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The spread of anthracite also shored up tolerance for smokier but cheaper bituminous coal. —Annie Persons, The Conversation, 7 May 2026

The 41-mm case, integrated bracelet, and folding clasp are all in titanium with a matte anthracite finish on the bezel and crown. —Tim Barber, Wired News, 14 Apr. 2026

Its organic palette can vary from warm grays and deep anthracites to rich browns and, more rarely, milky whites. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 7 Mar. 2026

The dark anthracite coating, paired with this vibrant red dial and visible double-hairspring tourbillon result in a unique look among ceramic watches in general. —Carol Besler, Forbes.com, 1 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, borrowed from Greek anthrakītid-, anthrakîtis "a kind of coal," from anthrak-, ánthrax "charcoal, coal" + -ītid-, -ītis, feminine noun suffix of appurtenance — more at anthrax

First Known Use

1797, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for anthracite

• acolyte
• aconite
• allanite
• alunite
• amberlite
• ammonite
• amorite
• amphitrite
• analyte
• anchorite
• andesite
• anhydrite

Kids Definition

anthracite

noun

an·​thra·​cite ˈan(t)-thrə-ˌsīt 

: a hard glossy coal that burns without much smoke or flame