gilsonite/ˈɡɪl.səˌnaɪt/gilsonite means A form of asphalt from the Uintah Basin of Utah.gilsonite is pronounced /ˈɡɪl.səˌnaɪt/.EtymologyFrom Gilson + -ite. Named after American rancher S. H. Gilson who discovered it.nounA form of asphalt from the Uintah Basin of Utah.