lotion

noun

lo·​tion ˈlō-shən 

: a liquid preparation for cosmetic or external medicinal use

Examples of lotion in a Sentence

a bottle of suntan lotion

Recent Examples on the Web

The end result is a lotion that hydrates while also preventing breakouts and smoothing rough texture over time. —Hana Hong, Glamour, 25 Mar. 2026

The most effective formulas pair retinol with the same hydrating ingredients found in a quality body lotion—think ceramides and hyaluronic acid—to maintain moisture while encouraging cell turnover. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 23 Mar. 2026

BeautyBarrier's new priming lotion creates a soft-focus, blurring finish and helps makeup stick to the skin for flawless, all-day wear. —Kelsey Legg, ABC News, 20 Mar. 2026

Toiletries needed are bar soap, toothpaste, face cream, body wash, compact mirror, body lotion, nail files, toothbrushes, floss, nonalcoholic mouthwash, face cream, deodorant, full-size shampoo, full-size conditioner, combs and brushes. —Melinda Moore, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English loscion, from Latin lotion-, lotio act of washing, from lavere to wash — more at lye

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for lotion

• notion
• ocean
• potion
• commotion
• demotion
• devotion
• emotion
• laotian
• promotion
• locomotion

Kids Definition

lotion

noun

lo·​tion ˈlō-shən 

: a liquid preparation for use as a cosmetic or as a medicine on the outside of the body

Etymology

from Latin lotion-, lotio "act of washing," from lotus, past participle of lavere "to wash" — related to laundry, lavatory, lavish

Medical Definition

lotion

noun

lo·​tion ˈlō-shən 

1

: a liquid usually aqueous medicinal preparation containing one or more insoluble substances and applied externally for skin disorders

2

: a liquid cosmetic preparation usually containing a cleansing, softening, or astringent agent and applied to the skin

hand lotion

aftershave lotion