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 carbon atoms in graphite form flat, six-sided – or hexagonal – sheets stacked loosely on top of each other. — Robin MacAluso, The Conversation, 3 Aug. 2026 The arrangement also adds another link to the US nuclear supply chain, with graphite produced in Europe moving to the US for machining before being used in reactor components. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 3 Aug. 2026 Today, China dominates large portions of the lithium, graphite and cobalt battery supply chains. — Dennis Calvert, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 The 40mm Watch 9 is offered in graphite or cream, and the 44mm version is available in graphite or silver. — Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 24 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 5 Aug. 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

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