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

In this episode of The Joy of Why, Mahadevan tells co-host Steven Strogatz what inspires him to tackle these questions, and how gels, gypsum and LED lights can help uncover form and function in biological systems. —Steven Strogatz, Quanta Magazine, 12 June 2025

Roman Clay is an ultralow-VOC paste made from a gypsum plaster base that dries with a mottled finish and a stone-like texture. —Lauren Bengtson, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 May 2025

According to Carl Harris, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), over 70 percent of softwood lumber and gypsum, which is used in drywall, originate from Canada and Mexico and serve as critical construction materials. —Kristan Hawkins, Newsweek, 6 Feb. 2025

Wallboard, known as gypsum, is imported from Mexico. —Diana Olick, CNBC, 3 Feb. 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