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

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

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