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Graphite Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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graphite

[หˆษกrafสŒษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

pencil

A grey crystalline allotropic form of carbon, used as a solid lubricant, in pencils, and as a moderator in nuclear reactors.

Synonyms

carbon black, lead.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
graphite

This word is commonly used in contexts related to art supplies, industrial applications, and science, especially when discussing materials or elements. Graphite is known for being used in pencils and as a lubricant.

  • He sketched the portrait using a graphite pencil.
  • Graphite is often used as a dry lubricant in different industrial applications.
carbon black

Carbon black is typically used in discussions about industrial materials and products, especially in the manufacture of rubber, inks, and coatings. It has a defining black pigment and is used mainly in manufacturing.

  • The tires are black due to the presence of carbon black.
  • Carbon black is an essential ingredient in many printing inks.
lead

Lead, in this context, refers to the graphite used in pencils, although the word can also mean the toxic metal. When talking about pencils, it's better to use 'graphite' to avoid confusion with the metal.

  • She broke the lead in her pencil while writing an essay.
  • Make sure the pencil lead is sharp for detailed drawings.

Examples of usage

  • The pencil lead is made of graphite.
  • Graphite is a common material used in pencils.
Context #2 | Noun

chemistry

A soft black mineral consisting of native carbon and occurring in metamic rocks.

Synonyms

black lead, plumbago.

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Word Description / Examples
graphite

Used commonly in scientific, industrial, and artistic contexts to refer to the crystalline form of carbon. It's often found in pencils, batteries, and high-temperature applications.

  • Graphite is used to make batteries
  • The artist drew a beautiful sketch using graphite pencils
black lead

An old-fashioned term for graphite, historically used to describe the material found in pencils. Not commonly used in modern language.

  • The antique shop had pencils made with black lead
  • In the 19th century, school children often wrote with black lead pencils
plumbago

An archaic term also referring to graphite. Usually encountered in historical texts or discussions about the history of pencil making and mineralogy.

  • Historical records indicate that plumbago was used in early pencil manufacturing
  • The sculptor used a stick of plumbago for his preliminary sketches

Examples of usage

  • Graphite is often used as a lubricant in industrial applications.
  • The properties of graphite make it useful in various industries.
Context #3 | Noun

technology

A form of carbon used in making electrodes, brushes, and other electrical components.

Synonyms

carbon, coal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
graphite

Graphite is typically used when referring to the form of carbon that is found in pencils, or materials used in industries like manufacturing electrodes or lubricants.

  • The artist used a graphite pencil to sketch the portrait.
  • The factory produces graphite electrodes for steel production.
carbon

Carbon can be used in a more general scientific context, referring to the nonmetallic element found in various forms, such as diamond, graphite, or as part of organic compounds.

  • Carbon is the basic building block of all known life.
  • Carbon emissions are a major concern in the fight against climate change.
coal

Coal is used when discussing the type of fossil fuel that is primarily used for energy and heat production.

  • Many countries are trying to reduce their dependence on coal to produce electricity.
  • The miners extracted coal from the underground mine.

Examples of usage

  • Graphite is a key component in batteries and fuel cells.
  • The conductivity of graphite makes it valuable in electronic devices.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Graphite is composed of carbon atoms arranged in layers, allowing it to easily slide, which is why it feels smooth.
  • Its ability to conduct electricity makes it useful in batteries and other electrical components.
  • Because of its high melting point, graphite is also used in high-temperature applications like rocket nozzles.

Art

  • Artists often use graphite pencils, which come in different hardness levels, for detailed drawings.
  • The art of drawing using graphite goes back to the Renaissance when it became popular among painters and sketch artists.
  • Not only does it allow for precise lines, but it can also create a range of tones and textures.

Industry

  • Graphite is used in making lubricants because it can reduce friction between surfaces.
  • In the production of steel, graphite is utilized as a refractory material due to its resistance to heat.
  • Manufacturers create composite materials using graphite to make stronger and lighter products, like in aerospace engineering.

Pop Culture

  • In popular films, characters often use graphite pencils as a symbol of artistic talent or creativity.
  • Graphite has inspired various art movements, such as Hyperrealism, where hyper-detailed artwork mimics photographic images.
  • Interestingly, certain modern comics have even depicted superheroes using graphite-based powers.

Origin of 'graphite'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'graphos,' meaning 'to write.'
  • In the 16th century, it was discovered in Borrowdale, England, where it was initially called 'black lead.'
  • The name 'graphite' was officially used starting in the late 18th century.

The word 'graphite' comes from the Greek word 'graphein', meaning 'to write'. It was first documented in the 18th century by German mineralogist Abraham Gottlob Werner. Graphite has been used for centuries in various applications, from writing instruments to industrial uses.

See also: autograph, graph, grapheme, graphic, graphing, monograph, xylograph.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,662 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.