graphite

noun

graph·ite ˈgra-ˌfīt

: 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

: 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

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 system etches three redundant data matrix codes, similar to QR codes, into the graphite surface, with markings approximately half a millimeter deep, according to the company. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 15 Oct. 2026 Recommended by Our Editors Combining the nanotube copper display plate with high-conductivity graphite improves heat spread laterally across the display. — Eric Zeman, PC Magazine, 12 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 Those come in more fun colorways, including rosette and matcha, in addition to the drab but functional graphite of the Tablet 12 Pro. — Terrence O'Brien, The Verge, 8 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

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Graphis

graphite

graphite blue

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Style

“Graphite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/graphite. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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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

graphite

noun

Examples of graphite in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

Medical Definition

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graphite

noun

Examples of graphite in a Sentence

Word History

Rhymes for graphite

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

Medical Definition

More from Merriam-Webster on graphite

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

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