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

Still, it’s never made sense to pack full-size shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and sunscreens—most of which come in 12-ounce bottles or tubes. —Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 28 Nov. 2025

And considering its rich lotion texture, this is a great option for oily skin types too. —Deanna Pai, Vogue, 27 Nov. 2025

From cozy winter candles in classic scents like Winter Candy Apple, Vanilla Bean Noel, and Champagne Toast to nourishing body care, including fragrance sprays and lotion, these Black Friday savings are too good to miss, and prices start at just $6. —Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 27 Nov. 2025

The kind of products that may contain talc vary—such as mascaras, eye shadows, lip liners, foundation, tanning lotions and nail polish—according to the Environmental Working Group. —Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 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