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

Furthermore, brands have made a strong commitment to including gray denim in all their catalogs, from distressed styles to deep graphite tones, successfully winning over both young audiences and those seeking a mature and refined alternative to traditional blue jeans. —René Chávez Esparza, Glamour, 16 Aug. 2025

The graphite blocks fully encapsulate the chips to prevent the liquid metal from leaking when the systems reach a maximum temperature of around 700°C. —Erik Kobayashi-Solomon, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2025

There’s a graphite reel seat and six guides that are built to last. —Christopher Murray May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 31 July 2025

In theory, silicon offers roughly 10 times the energy density of graphite in lithium-ion batteries. —IEEE Spectrum, 30 July 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