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

These are more efficient than your average zippered disposable bags because the leakproof and waterproof bags can contain smelly clothes, messy lotions and gels, and more. —Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 14 Nov. 2025

This set features Salt & Stone’s subtle, smoky Santal & Vetiver scent in travel-size essentials—body mist, natural deodorant, lotion, and cleanser—all minimal and mini enough to toss in a gym bag or carry-on. —Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 11 Nov. 2025

Supplements, lotions, lights, pain-relief patches—I’ve tried it all. —Ali Nolan, Outside, 10 Nov. 2025

That’s thanks to the five molecular weights of hyaluronic acid inside this 2024 Best of Beauty Award winner, which hydrate on multiple levels instead of just sitting on top of skin like a basic lotion. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 9 Nov. 2025

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