n.
- the chemical element of atomic number 6, a non-metal which has two main forms (diamond and graphite), occurs in impure form in charcoal, soot, and coal, and is present in all organic compounds.
(Symbol: C)
- carbon dioxide or other gaseous carbon compounds released into the atmosphere, associated with climate change:
[as modifier]
fossil fuel consumption and carbon emissions continued to rise.
- a rod of carbon in an arc lamp.
- a piece of carbon paper, or a carbon copy.
Derivative
- carbonaceous adj.
- carbonless adj.
Etymology
C18: from Fr. carbone, from L. carbo, carbon- ‘coal, charcoal’.