Definition: Graphite is the 'gray lead in your drawing pencil. Graphite is not lead at all; the misnomer arose because it was mistaken for a form of lead when first discovered in England. Graphite is in fact a form of carbon, and is non-toxic. Pencils have never been made from lead, but it was not until the late 18th century that the true composition of the material was identified, and the original name stuck. Modern pencil cores contain an extruded blend of pulverised graphite and clay.
Pronunciation: graf-ite
Also Known As: greylead, graylead, pencil lead
