I. ˈgraˌfīt, usu -īd.+V noun
( -s )
Etymology: German graphit, from Greek graphein to write + German -it -ite
1. : a mineral consisting of soft black lustrous carbon that occurs both in hexagonal crystals and as foliated or granular massive, conducts electricity, and is used in lead pencils, crucibles, electrolytic anodes, as a lubricant, and as a moderator in atomic-energy plants (hardness 1-2, specific gravity 2.09-2.23) — called also black lead, plumbago ; see electrographite
2. : a dark grayish blue to dark bluish gray
II. transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
: to coat or impregnate with graphite : graphitize 2
III. noun
: a composite material in which carbon fibers are the reinforcing material