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 chemicals provide flexibility and lubrication in a wide variety of products, including children’s toys, food storage containers, shower curtains, deodorants, hair gels and body lotions. — Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 28 Aug. 2026

Use a basic dish soap that doesn’t include extra lotions and perfumes. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 26 Aug. 2026

The significant difference between antifungal cream and lotion is that lotions have a higher water content that provides a barrier to keep the skin well hydrated. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 25 Aug. 2026

The First Aid lotion is made with colloidal oatmeal, which can relieve dry and distressed skin, while the La Roche-Posay cream is made with ceramides and niacinamide, two skincare ingredients that help the skin restore and retain moisture. — Jasmine Gomez, Travel + Leisure, 21 Aug. 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