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

What’s the difference between magnesium lotions, powders and supplements? —Jennifer Shanker, Flow Space, 6 Feb. 2025

Founded in 1990, Bath & Body Works has been selling unique fragrances via lotion, perfume, body spray, soap and body wash, candles and even hand sanitizer for over 30 years. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 3 Feb. 2025

Don’t neglect the rest of the body, either, and grab Eos’ best–selling body lotion and Tree Hut’s exfoliating and skin-nourishing body scrub for all over body care. —Alicia Geigel, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Jan. 2025

Glass cases display the French beauty and skincare brand’s gorgeous bottles of perfume and lotion. —Lane Nieset, Travel + Leisure, 22 Jan. 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

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