gypsum

noun

gyp·​sum ˈjip-səm How to pronounce gypsum (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The park is renowned for its wave-like dunes made of stark-white gypsum sand. — Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 1 July 2026 Zidack says lime, dolomitic lime, gypsum, and bone meal are all suitable alternative sources. — Gemma Johnstone, The Spruce, 25 May 2026 Residue analysis has identified frankincense and gypsum within the coffin, and exotic resins in one of the glass vessels, offering a rare glimpse into how her body was treated after her death. — Gina Kalsi, PEOPLE, 15 May 2026 When buildings are heavily damaged or collapse, the rubble often contains crushed concrete, gypsum and carcinogenic fibrous materials, such as asbestos. — Armin Sorooshian, The Conversation, 16 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for gypsum

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from Greek gypsos

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of gypsum was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

gypsoplast
gypsum
gypsum block
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gypsum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gypsum. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

gypsum

noun
gyp·​sum ˈjip-səm How to pronounce gypsum (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce gypsum (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on gypsum

Nglish: Translation of gypsum for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about gypsum

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