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.
Graphene, a single layer of graphite, follows this arrangement. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 23 Oct. 2026 Since this is a new form factor for Apple, the company designed a novel vapor chamber and heat dissipation system that includes routing a graphite pipe through the hinge to help spread heat throughout the chassis. — Eric Zeman, PC Magazine, 21 Oct. 2026 Add-ons include a handy ferro rod pendant for campers, a 20-piece bit set, and replacement graphite tips and blades. — Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 19 Oct. 2026 Two Black men are rendered in graphite, eyes closed, mouths open with yearning, disclosing sighs of ecstasy or prayer. — Jane Bua, New Yorker, 9 Oct. 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
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Cite this Entry

“Graphite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/graphite. Accessed 27 Oct. 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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about graphite

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