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

Subject to permitting, regulatory authorizations and financing, synthetic AAM production at the Ohio facility is expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2027, with natural graphite production at Graphite Creek targeted for 2029. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 18 July 2026

Zimbabwe has tightened controls on lithium, Mozambique now requires more graphite to be processed domestically, and Gabon plans to halt raw manganese exports later this decade. — Yinka Adegoke, semafor.com, 17 July 2026

This 100 percent Chardonnay has aromas of citrus blossoms, lemon zest, and graphite. — Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 17 July 2026

While a graphite rod in the same weight would work perfectly fine, a fiberglass rod does two useful things. — Joe Cermele, Outdoor Life, 9 July 2026

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