gypsum

noun

gyp·​sum ˈjip-səm 

1

: a widely distributed mineral consisting of hydrous calcium sulfate that is used especially as a soil amendment and in making plaster of paris

2

: drywall

Examples of gypsum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Plaster of Paris, gypsum, and other white, powdery fillers made their way into milk and flour for color and texture. —Lauren Leffer, Popular Science, 1 May 2025

As an Underwater Graveyard, the Great Lakes Have Claimed Close to 10,000 Ships Studying Underwater Sinkholes Underneath Lake Huron is an ancient basin that formed 400 million years ago with dolomite, gypsum, and limestone. —Emilie Le Beau Lucchesi, Discover Magazine, 18 Apr. 2025

The new tariffs affect not only steel, aluminum, and appliances but also critical construction items like gypsum and concrete. —John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Apr. 2025

Nearly 70% of U.S. softwood lumber imports come from Canada, while 71% of gypsum and lime imports come from Mexico, according to the National Association of Home Builders. —Mike Winters, CNBC, 5 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from Greek gypsos

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

gypsum

noun

gyp·​sum ˈjip-səm 

: a colorless mineral that consists of calcium sulfate occurring in crystals or masses and that is used especially as a soil improver and in making plaster of paris

Medical Definition

gypsum

noun

gyp·​sum ˈjip-səm 

: a widely distributed mineral CaSO₄·2H₂O consisting of hydrous calcium sulfate that is used especially as a soil amendment and in making plaster of paris