the GNU version of the Collaborative International Dictionary of English
Plumbago; graphite. It leaves a blackish mark somewhat like lead. See graphite.
v. To coat or to polish with black lead (graphite).
n. graphite or plumbago; -- so called from its leadlike appearance and streak.
The Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia
n. Amorphous graphite; plumbago. See graphite.
n. A pencil made of graphite.
To cover with plumbago or black-lead; apply black-lead to.
WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.
n. used as a lubricant and as a moderator in nuclear reactors
v. cover with graphite
Word Usage
"The process of electrotyping is as follows: The form is locked up very tightly, and is then coated with a surface of graphite, commonly known as blacklead, but it is a misnomer."