plaster of paris

plaster of par·is

often capitalized 2d P \-ˈpa-rəs\

Definition of PLASTER OF PARIS

: a white powdery slightly hydrated calcium sulfate CaSO₄·¹⁄₂H₂O or 2CaSO₄·H₂O made by calcining gypsum and used chiefly for casts and molds in the form of a quick-setting paste with water

Origin of PLASTER OF PARIS

Paris, France

First Known Use: 15th century

Rhymes with PLASTER OF PARIS

Lewis with Harris

plaster of par·is

noun \-ˈpar-əs\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of PLASTER OF PARIS

: a white powdery slightly hydrated calcium sulfate CaSO₄·¹⁄₂H₂O or 2CaSO₄·H₂O that is made by calcining gypsum, forms a quick-setting paste with water, and is used in medicine chiefly in casts and for surgical bandages

plaster of paris

   (Concise Encyclopedia)

Quick-setting gypsum plaster consisting of a fine white powder, calcium sulfate hemihydrate, which hardens when moistened and allowed to dry. It is made by heating gypsum to 250–360°F (120–180°C). Used since ancient times, plaster of paris is so called because of its preparation from the abundant gypsum found in Paris. It is used to make molds and casts for ceramics and sculptures, to precast and hold ornamental plasterwork on ceilings and cornices, and for orthopedic bandages (casts). In medieval and Renaissance times, gesso (plaster of paris mixed with glue) was applied to wood panels, plaster, stone, or canvas to provide the ground for tempera and oil painting.