graphite

• POS: Noun
• HYPHEN: graph=ite

CIDE DICTIONARY

graphite, n. [Gr. gra`fein to write: cf. F. graphite. See Graphic.].

 Native carbon in hexagonal crystals, also foliated or granular massive, of black color and metallic luster, and so soft as to leave a trace on paper. It is used for pencils (improperly called lead pencils), for crucibles, and as a lubricator, etc. Often called plumbago or black lead.  [1913 Webster]

Graphite battery (Elec.), a voltaic battery consisting of zinc and carbon in sulphuric acid, or other exciting liquid.

OXFORD DICTIONARY

graphite, n. a crystalline allotropic form of carbon used as a solid lubricant, in pencils, and as a moderator in nuclear reactors etc. Also called PLUMBAGO, black lead.

Derivative

graphitic adj. graphitize v.tr. & intr. (also -ise).

Etymology

G Graphit f. Gk grapho write