lotion

noun

lo·​tion ˈlō-shən How to pronounce lotion (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Aesop’s amber bottles are unmistakably ubiquitous, whether for soap, lotion, or mouthwash. Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 24 June 2025 Bath & Body Works: Make your shower even more luxurious with sweet-smelling body washes, buttery lotions, and exfoliating scrubs that cost as little as $2. Averi Baudler, People.com, 24 June 2025 Advertisement Read More: Why So Many Dogs Have Allergies Now Doggy sunscreen comes in balms, lotions, and sprays, and the American Kennel Club advises applying it 20 minutes before your dog goes out. Angela Haupt, Time, 23 June 2025 Prioritize mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, choose lotion formulations over sprays, and prioritize comprehensive sun safety strategies that protect both our health and the precious marine ecosystems. Arlene Blum, Forbes.com, 22 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for lotion

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of lotion was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lotion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lotion. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

lotion

noun
lo·​tion ˈlō-shən How to pronounce lotion (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce lotion (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on lotion

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