graphite

Definition

An allotrope of carbon, consisting of planes of carbon atoms arranged in hexagonal arrays with the planes stacked loosely, that is used as a dry lubricant, in "lead" pencils, and as a moderator in some nuclear reactors.

Etymology

Borrowed from German Graphit (A. G. Werner 1789), from Ancient Greek γράφω (gráphō, “I write”).

Example Sentences

• "Technical terms like ferrite, perlite, graphite, and hardenite were bandied to and fro, and when Paget glibly brought out such a rare exotic as ferro-molybdenum, Benson forgot that he was a master ship-builder, […]"
• "Modern tennis racquets are made of graphite, fibreglass and other man-made materials."