1. [syn: graphite, black lead, plumbago]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Graphite \Graph"ite\, n. [Gr. gra`fein to write: cf. F.
graphite. See Graphic.] (Min.)
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
WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):
n 1: used as a lubricant and as a moderator in nuclear reactors
[syn: graphite, black lead, plumbago]