noun
- a hard compound of carbon with a metal or other element, used in cutting tools and abrasives
Usage: chemistry; industrial
Examples
- The drill bit was made of tungsten carbide for maximum durability.
- Carbide cutting tools can withstand high temperatures and maintain their sharpness.
- The mining company used carbide lamps before electric lighting became common.
- Silicon carbide is used as an abrasive in sandpaper and grinding wheels.
- The machinist replaced the worn carbide insert in the lathe tool.
- Calcium carbide reacts with water to produce acetylene gas.