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pencil
/ˈpɛn.səl/
writing tool with graphite core
She sharpened her pencil before starting to draw.
The act of preparing the writing tool for use.
general
A slender cylindrical tool containing a core of graphite or other marking substance, used for writing or drawing.
The artist sketched the landscape with a soft pencil.
The pencil's graphite core allowed for smooth, dark lines.
He marked the measurements with a pencil on the wood.
The pencil left temporary lines that could be erased.
Pencils may come in various hardness grades (e.g., HB, 2B, 4H).
Collocations
pencil casea container for storing pencils and writing toolspencil sharpenera device for sharpening pencilscolored pencila pencil with a colored core, not graphite
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Choosing the right pencil
For sketching, softer pencils (e.g., 2B) create darker lines, while harder ones (e.g., H) are better for technical drawings.
Gold Rule
Erasing pencil marks
Always use an eraser designed for pencils to avoid damaging paper.
Word Origin
From Middle French *pincel* (brush), derived from Latin *penicillus* (brush, from *penis*, tail), referring to the small brush-like tip of early pencils before graphite cores were used.
Usage Notes
Pencils are often used for drafting, sketching, or situations where erasure is needed. The term can also metaphorically refer to a person's ability to write or draw (e.g., 'a fine pencil').
Word Breakdown
pencil
writing tool
rootEnglish Dictionary