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

The Pakistani mill showed new sulfur dyes like aged merlot and graphite green, and fabrics with brown and blue wefts. —Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 22 Apr. 2026

The interior decor, meanwhile, is a modern mix of drywall and vinyl plank floors, with custom wooden cabinetry and graphite countertops. —Adam Williams april 22, New Atlas, 22 Apr. 2026

Critical minerals include lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite — key components of the lithium-ion batteries in smartphones, EVs, and the grid-scale storage systems that hold solar and wind power for later use. —Big Think, 22 Apr. 2026

The fridge has a light-diffusing reeded glass door and comes in eight colors including cream, yellow, graphite, and icy or electric blue. —Emily Saladino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 17 Apr. 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