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

How to apply it properly Start with a cream or lotion 15 to 30 minutes before going outside, and work it into the skin like a massage so no spot is missed. — Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 30 July 2026

Similarly, calamine lotion or a dab of hydrocortisone cream work well, too. — Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 29 July 2026

Old lotions and bath products should not be placed in the donation bin, as thrift stores can’t resell them for health and hygiene reasons. — Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 July 2026

Reminiscent of bar soap, the stones instantly melt into your skin sans the hassle of applying traditional lotion. — Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 25 July 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