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

Same goes for curious tweens, explains another Redditor, whose 10-year-old daughter loves making potions with glue, lotion, and even shampoo when doors are closed. —Liz Regalia, Parents, 26 Feb. 2026

Rather than carrying a lotion or face mist, this hydrating stick provides the same burst of moisture without counting against TSA regulations. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 25 Feb. 2026

When to start using tattoo lotion Tattoo artists recommend not cleaning and moisturizing your tattoo until 24 to 48 hours after your tattoo session. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 25 Feb. 2026

Dermatologically speaking, most kids don’t need a skin-care routine; soap, lotion, and sunscreen suffice. —Nancy Walecki, The Atlantic, 25 Feb. 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