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

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.
Cores under the Mediterranean Sea itself revealed minerals such as gypsum and rock salt that are commonly deposited when salty water dries up. Elizabeth Fernandez, Big Think, 4 Sep. 2025 The gypsum dunes replicate crusty Martian sediment, while frozen ridges offer lessons in ice-regolith interactions. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 22 Aug. 2025 This product is usually applied to gardens with a broadcast spreader at a rate of around ½ pound of gypsum per square foot of space. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Aug. 2025 The journey, while short, does a great job of showcasing the ecosystem that is created when two landscapes meet—in this case, desert scrub brush and gypsum dunes. Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 5 Aug. 2025 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

Cite this Entry

“Gypsum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gypsum. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

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

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