graphite

UK: ˈɡræfaɪt | US: ˈɡræfaɪt

Definition

  1. n. A soft, black form of carbon used in pencils and as a lubricant.

  2. n. A crystalline allotrope of carbon with a layered structure.

Structure
graph <write/draw>ite <mineral suffix>
Etymology

graphite = graph<write/draw> + ite<mineral suffix>

  • graph: From Greek graphos (written/drawn), referring to its use in pencils for writing/drawing.
  • ite: A suffix denoting minerals or rocks, from Greek -ites.

Etymology Origin:
The word "graphite" was coined in 1789 by German geologist Abraham Gottlob Werner, combining graph (due to its use in pencils) and -ite (a common mineral suffix). Its naming reflects its primary historical application—writing—while its layered carbon structure was later understood scientifically.

Examples

  1. Graphite is the main material in pencil leads.

  2. The lubricant contains finely ground graphite powder.

  3. Graphite conducts electricity due to its carbon layers.

  4. Artists use graphite sticks for detailed sketches.

  5. Synthetic graphite is used in lithium-ion batteries.