GRAPHITE

graphite, black lead, plumbago

(noun) used as a lubricant and as a moderator in nuclear reactors

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Noun

graphite (countable and uncountable, plural graphites)

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 and in "lead" pencils.

Short for graphite-reinforced plastic, a composite plastic made with graphite fibers noted for light weight strength and stiffness.

A grey colour.

Synonyms

• (allotrope of carbon): plumbago, black lead

• (composite plastic): carbon fiber reinforced plastic, carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer, graphite composite, CFRP, CRP

Anagrams

• earth pig, earth-pig, earthpig

Source: Wiktionary

Graph"ite, n. Etym: [Gr. graphite. See Graphic.] (Min.)

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

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition