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

Twenty percent of the lotions used contained formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, 12 of which were from the same brand, Bath & Body Works. —Kaitlin Sullivan, Health, 17 May 2025

Combine with your lotion for radiant sheen on arms, legs, and chest. —Izzy Baskette, People.com, 16 May 2025

Stop by the soft green-colored store in the historic Kuan Zhai Alley that’s devoted solely to the rich lotion. —Terry Elward, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025

The shaving serum and post-shave lotion smells like rich neroli blossom and sandalwood—he'll feel pampered and smell like a vacation. —Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 12 May 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