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

Thanks to squalane- and vitamin E-rich olives, this is a moisturizing, moisture-retaining, collagen-boosting, antioxidant-rich, and anti-inflammatory body lotion. —Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 5 Feb. 2026

During winter, Chang also suggests switching to richer creams instead of lotions or gels and layering humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid with occlusives to help seal moisture in. —Avery Newmark, AJC.com, 5 Feb. 2026

The business sells a selection of perfumes, hand sanitizers, body oils, lotions and more. —Alysa Guffey, IndyStar, 3 Feb. 2026

Consider other products that complement the shower steamer experience, like shower gels, lotions and loofah sponges, in your gift set too. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 30 Jan. 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