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
gra-ˈfi-tik How to pronounce graphite (audio)
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.
The cooler is available in nightfall blue, primrose, lilac, and graphite, and in 18-can and 24-can sizes. — Terri Williams, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 Breaking China’s grip China controls the majority of the world’s battery graphite and anode technology. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 7 July 2026 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

Rhymes for graphite

See All Rhymes for graphite

Browse Nearby Words

Graphis
graphite
graphite blue
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Graphite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/graphite. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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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
gra-ˈfit-ik How to pronounce graphite (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on graphite

Nglish: Translation of graphite for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about graphite

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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