Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

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
      liquid.

Source : WordNet®

graphite
     n : used as a lubricant and as a moderator in nuclear reactors
         [syn: {black lead}, {plumbago}]