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

During drier seasons, consider including a facial lotion as well. —Abbey Hudetz, Travel + Leisure, 4 Jan. 2026

Those familiar with the Six Senses brand will likely know of the ‘Alchemy Bar’ concept, which originated in Douro and invites guests to make their own beauty and wellness products—such as bath salts or body lotions —using natural ingredients grown on-site. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Jan. 2026

Used in everyday solutions like adhesives and lotions, LMWGs are inexpensive but are also needed in very small amounts. —Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 1 Jan. 2026

Using this lotion will be an easy daily routine that pays off fast. —Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 31 Dec. 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