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 two main compartments stow full-size bottles of lotion, shampoo, conditioner, and more upright. —Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE, 24 Apr. 2026

The rebrand was a chance to refocus on the best sellers, like body lotions, washes, and scrubs—all of which happen to lend themselves quite well to being refilled. —Kara McGrath, Allure, 22 Apr. 2026

Stash Overstock Products Elsewhere If space in your home allows, make an effort to keep your overstock products—unopened bottles of your favorite shampoo and lotion, extra makeup, toilet paper, and the like—in an area that is not your bathroom. —Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 21 Apr. 2026

There is also a body lotion of the same scent for $85, and shower gel for $80. —Anne Bratskeir, Travel + Leisure, 21 Apr. 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