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

Gel creams, lightweight lotions, and emulsions—oh my! —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 19 Mar. 2026

Toiletries needed are bar soap, toothpaste, face cream, body wash, compact mirror, body lotion, nail files, toothbrushes, floss, nonalcoholic mouthwash, face cream, deodorant, full-size shampoo, full-size conditioner, combs and brushes. —Melinda Moore, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026

In the meantime, apply a smear of lotion to your hands to protect your skin and prepare a bowl of ice-cold water. —Shagun Khare, Martha Stewart, 16 Mar. 2026

This cute giftable set includes their famous Bum Bum lotion, plus a travel-size mister of their Chierosa 62 perfume. —Chaunie Brusie, Parents, 14 Mar. 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