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

Catherine Baker-May, 61, a real estate agent from Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, remembers her mother bringing home J&J’s powder, lotions and shampoo. —Michael L. Diamond, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026

What a process of lotions, potions, all sorts of serums, creams and oils, and some techy stuff like an ultrasound peel and cold oxygen bursts. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Apr. 2026

Nice Toiletries Upgrade to high-quality hand soaps and lotions, and consider replacing paper towels with a basket of individual washable linens. —Kate Donovan, Martha Stewart, 11 Apr. 2026

However, AmLactin lotion promises to deliver great results with deeper, long-lasting hydration. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 9 Apr. 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