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

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

And, the majority of drywall, or gypsum, used in both commercial and residential construction is imported from other countries. —Diana Olick, CNBC, 4 Mar. 2025

Plaster is a building material, usually made from lime, gypsum, or cement that is mixed with water and applied to surfaces to create a smooth, slightly textured yet durable surface. —Lauren Bengtson, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 May 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